Converting a Humbucker Fitted Guitar to P90s: A Comprehensive Guide

Converting a guitar fitted with humbuckers to P90s can be a rewarding project, but it requires careful planning and the right tools. This guide will provide you with the necessary knowledge to navigate through the process, ensuring that you achieve the best results possible.

Introduction

Many guitarists are drawn to the unique tone and character of P90 pickups, but the process of converting from humbuckers to P90s isn't always straightforward. While there are tools and templates available to make the job easier, the complexity of the task can vary depending on the type of P90 you choose. This article will explore the differences between humbucker and soapbar P90 replacements, the tools required, and the potential pitfalls to avoid.

Types of P90 Conversion

There are two main types of P90 conversions to consider: humbucker-size P90s and soapbar P90s. Each has its own set of requirements and challenges.

Humbucker-Sized P90s: These can be directly replaced with P-90 pickups due to a similar physical size. The process involves simple soldering and mounting, making it a relatively straightforward task. Soapbar P90s: These require careful routing to create the necessary cavity for the pickup. This can be likened to performing open heart surgery on your guitar, as it involves precise and delicate work.

Routing and Mounting Soapbar P90s

For soapbar P90s, the routing process is crucial. Proper routing not only ensures a secure fit but also maintains the integrity of the guitar's body. There are templates available that can help guide you through this process, but they require a router, which can be expensive and requires careful handling.

Routers and Precision

Routers are highly precise tools but can be costly. If you don't have access to a router, hand tools like chisels can be used, but they require a significant amount of practice and experience to use effectively. Cheap chisels might seem like a budget-friendly option, but they can quickly become dull and may not provide the precision needed for such delicate work. Investing in high-quality chisels and a proper sharpening kit is recommended.

Sharpening and Safety

Sharpening chisels is a skill in itself. It requires proper equipment and techniques to avoid breaking the tip of the chisel or damaging the edge. Inexperienced users often face this issue, leading to costly repairs. Accurate sharpening can sometimes necessitate professional repair, highlighting the importance of investing in quality tools and learning the right techniques.

Router Techniques

Using a router to round the edges of the hole is essential to avoid chipping and cracking. This process can be simplified with templates that guide you through the routing steps. However, free-hand routing can be risky, especially for beginners. It's strongly recommended that you practice extensively before attempting it on a valuable guitar.

The router is one of the most dangerous power tools in the woodworking shop. It cuts sideways, unlike drills which typically cut vertically. Therefore, it's crucial to follow safety guidelines carefully, such as watching safety videos and thoroughly reading the owner's manual. Misusing a router without proper precautions can lead to serious injury.

Conclusion

Converting a humbucker fitted guitar to P90s is a project that requires time, patience, and the right tools. Whether you opt for a simpler humbucker-sized P90 or tackle the more complex soapbar P90 conversion, proper preparation and precision are key to achieving a successful outcome. By understanding the tools and techniques involved, you can minimize the risk of errors and maximize the chance of a great sounding guitar.

For those with a background in woodworking and experience with routers and chisels, the task might appear less daunting. However, for beginners, it's advisable to seek guidance or hire a professional to ensure the best results.