how to put on a pick guard

[Cary Fagan]

Hi,
I have a Collings MT2 which I purchased used a few months ago. I miss playing with a pickguard and have decided to put one on. My local shop says I have to leave it with them for three weeks, even though it only takes them a few minutes to put on a standard one.

So I'm wondering, can I possibly put it on myself? It's just a couple of screws, right? Is it trickier than it looks? Obviously I wouldn't want to risk damaging the instrument. Do the holes screw (ugh) directly in or do you need drill holes first?

Also, any suggestions for a store-bought pickguard? I'd like something on the slim, unobtrusive side.

Thanks.

[steve in tampa]

I just took one off of a Dean. One screw in the side of the instrument, and one in the side of the neck.

Here is a pickguard that does not cover the sound hole too bad. I have one on my MK, but it may not fit your Collings.

http://michaelkellyguitars.zoovy.com/category/mkstrings/?p=2

[sunburst]

You can possibly do it yourself. I don't know your skill level and confidence level so I don't know whether or not to recomend that you do it yourself.

As for screw holes, YES the holes need to be drilled before the screws go in. If you put screws in without drilling you can split the wood or cause other damage. In fact, finish damage around the hole is likely unless you countersink the drilled hole to the size of your screw threads before you put the screws in.

I'm pretty sure there are members here who make and sell pickguards in various sizes and materials. You'll probably hear from someone soon.

[phynie]

check out frets.com. they have instructions for that sort of thing.
with pictures too!