Building a SAGA HT-10 - final assembly
Assembly is straightforward enough but there are one or two glitches to trap the unwary! These notes are the result of feedback from builders and my own experience
- In sections 4 & 5 the instructions state that the earth wire goes to the bridge studs. Some bodies are drilled so that the wire must go to the the tailpiece.
Make sure you position the earth wire before you hammer in the bridge and tailpiece studs.
- There is an error in some versions the assembly instructions. You have to do steps 8, 9 and 10 BEFORE you can do step 6!
- The wire for the socket is not green as stated, nor is it long enough to allow the volume control to be located in the forward position.
- The rearmost neck screws protrude slightly into the front pickup cavity and foul the pickup. They will need to be cut shorter with a hacksaw.
- The pickup routs are a tight fit. This is often due to the body sealant running into the routs. If this is the case. it can be removed with a file.
- IMPORTANT Please note that the tops are sealed and so it is not possible to stain the maple top. However:
- Simply applying a clear coat or tinted gloss will enhance the flame considerably
- If you want to stain the maple, the top can be stripped with Nitromors or similar and wire wool. Do not sand as you will never get the sandpaper marks out of the maple.
- Be careful as if you get the top too wet, the veneer maple top can lift but...
- ...if this happens, don't panic. As it dries out, the top will reattach itself!
You should get something that looks this good or better!
