New Build Pics...

[The Fixer]

Even though I'm out of the car game, I still like to tinker and build stuff. I've been bit by the Fender Stratocaster bug lately, so I put one together. My 9 year old son and 6 year old daughter helped me out too - I let them remove the OEM pickguard and install the new one, plus swap the knobs and pickup covers. I bought all the parts off Ebay - the loaded body is a 2008 and came in from Maine. The neck came from a 2010 Strat that a guy parted out in Oregon, and the replacement trim came from a dealer in Arkansas. Here's a few pics - comments are welcome!

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh190/TPIMonteSS/MIM%20Partscaster%20Build/IMAG0680.jpg

Here's the body. It was in decent shape, but I buffed it out and removed as many scratches as I could. I also removed the bridge and saddles so I could polish them up with Blue Magic.

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh190/TPIMonteSS/MIM%20Partscaster%20Build/IMAG0687.jpg

Original pickguard removed.

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh190/TPIMonteSS/MIM%20Partscaster%20Build/IMAG0690.jpg

New Fender black pickup covers installed.

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh190/TPIMonteSS/MIM%20Partscaster%20Build/IMAG0695.jpg

Completed body!!

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh190/TPIMonteSS/MIM%20Partscaster%20Build/IMAG0691.jpg

Here's the rosewood neck - it has a nice vintage look, but is a modern C-shape and very comfy.

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh190/TPIMonteSS/MIM%20Partscaster%20Build/IMAG0699.jpg

Here's a back shot - I bought a new "vintage" Fender neck plate with the scripted "F". The standard Strats usually have a plain chrome cover there.

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh190/TPIMonteSS/MIM%20Partscaster%20Build/IMAG0701.jpg

And, here she is all together!! :)

[Kat]

Nice job! That is one guitar I can never play!! ;)

[The Fixer]

Nice job! That is one guitar I can never play!! ;)

LOL, thanks Kat! When I worked at Sam Ash, the guys were relentless - I was the only lefty there! :)

[Kat]

haha sorry I had to.. BTW The more I'm looking at that strat.. I have a feeling you had SRV in mind ;)

[The Fixer]

haha sorry I had to.. BTW The more I'm looking at that strat.. I have a feeling you had SRV in mind ;)

:) I saved the original white knobs and pickup covers, just in case. :)