PB Deluxe 1963 Edition
Project Number: 22001
Project Type: Kit build
Project status: In progress
Inspiration for this build is a right handed 1963 Fender Precision Bass in Daphne Blue with a white pickguard and bridge and pickup covers. This model was the first with all the features one would associate with a P Bass – headstock shape, contoured body, pickguard and pickup configuration.
The build will be based on our PB Deluxe with the addition of a Fender thumb rest, bridge and pickup cover to complete the vintage look. Neck and headstock will be finished natural. Body will be dyed dyed light blue and finished with Tru-Oil.
Photos of the build will be added as work progresses and the bass will be offered for sale when it is complete. If you are interested, contact us.
Specifications
Neck – 34″ scale maple with rosewood fret board. Neck and headstock finished with Tru-Oil, fretboard oiled.
Hardware – Generic, Fender style made in Japan.
Body – Mohognay. Finished with alcohol based dyes, Tru-Oil and Tru-Oil Wax
Additions – Fender Thumb rest below strings and Fender vintage chrome pickup and bridge covers.
Project Notes
8 Jan 22 – Ordered parts from supplier.
17 Jan 22 – Shipment arrived, initial quality check and test fit. Removed hardware to prepare for sanding. Ordered a bone nut.
18 Jan 22 – Began shaping work on headstock
19 Jan 22 – Started sanding body
21 Jan 22 – Body sanded to 320 grit
22 Jan 22 – Body cavities painted with conductive shielding paint. Body stained light blue and first coats of Tru-Oil applied. Frets leveled and crowned, headstock reshaping completed.
23-26 Jan 22 – More thin coats of oil and level sanding.
25 Jan 22 – Fretwork complete, neck sanding almost done
26 Jan 22 – Neck sanding complete, first coat of oil,
27 Jan 22 – Wasn’t happy with sanding job on front and back of headstock. Sanded back, cleaned and reapplied first coat of oil. Much better. Continued to build finish on the body and level sanding.
28-29 Jan 22 – Built up oil finish on neck, applied decals.
30 Jan 22 – More layers of oil.
1 Feb 22 – Last coat of oil, will let it set a few days then buff. Began fitting pickguard and electronics. Looking great!
2 Feb 22 – Tidied up fretboard and oiled.
3 Feb 22 – Started buffing body, headstock still needs oil.
4-6 Feb 22 – Last coats of oil, buffing installation of neck and tuning machines.