Topic
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TrussartyCaster
Hi all, I'm a new member and have just started to customise my Fender Mexican Telecaster.
I have always wanted a Trussart, but way short of the $4,500 I needed.
As I also play in a Southern Rock band here in the UK, I also wanted something with a bit of southern-style.
So, first step was to get the right sound - I've installed BareKnuckle "Boss" pickups and a four-way selector switch - fantastic boost in the fourth position - I can almost compete with the two Les Pauls and Marshall stacks in the band:-)
Next step - I'm using aluminium flooring ( like another mod in the gallery by Glyn in Wales) but I'm only mimicking the scratchplate and control panel, so no work needed to the actual body size/shape.
eventually, a local artist is going to airbrush the body to make it look rusty, hit by a truck dirty, with a star from the confederate flag overlapping the nexk pickup. To make the paint stick, we've done a first step of etching the aluminium with drain cleaner (sodium hydroxide mainly). The oxide formed gives the metal a dull white look, but hopefully the paint should stick. Ditto with a control panel that I've made copying the original shape.
I've ordered a Wilkinson 3-brass saddle chrome bridge, and am going to use electrolysis to age the chrome, and bleach to age the brass saddles. At this point, any comments/hints are gratefully appreciated!!!!
I've also ordered a replacement neck from Warmoth - Indian rosewood and a "flame" in it that also looks like rust, which should complement the bodywork and play better than the original mex neck (I've also gone for jumbo frets like a great '77 Deluxe that I also own)
Finally, the tuners will get the electrolysis treatment on the knob-bits.
Any suggestions for a metal partial cover for the headstock most welcome - have tried Glyn by email but bounced back - though he might have a few spares in the garage:-)
I'll post photos soon, as the project starts to take shape.
