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Jeff Highland -> RE: Drilling hole for pick up socket, safe? (May 16 2014 22:43:51)
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There are two alternative positions for this.
You can go with a regular jack installed through the side like a Gibson hollowbody. In this case you would want to install a reinforcing patch to the thin side.
Or you can use a Fishman endpin jack installed through a 12mm hole at the centre of the tailblock. This is what I normally do.
In both cases, how you drill the hole is important.
Do not use a normal twist drill, even gradually drilling to size, it can catch and cause a lot of damage, as well as chipping out finish. I have heard of one catch actually splitting the sides and tailblock. You might be lucky......but.
My preferred method now, and I just did one this morning, is to drill a 2mm guide hole then a 6mm pilot hole with a brad point bit and then take it out to 12mm with a 12mm step drill with a piece of card on the shank to prevent the chuck contacting the side when it goes though.
I have used a 12mm brad point drill in the past but this is much safer and smoother. You can also use a reamer if you can get one the right diameter or the specialist (exxy) tool from stewmac.
12mm is good, 1/2" is too sloppy
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