GUILD D-25M RESTORATION-Out of Box/Case SG's Review Posted

[bluesypicky]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #1 ADDED - NECK RESET

Southern, I feel for you and your mishap, but I must say from reading you, that I 'm not surprised you were able take the lead in your life again, and not let those "issues" do it.
It takes the positive character you regularly demonstrate through your posts, and, like all others here, I am excited for you as I follow the rejuvenation of your next pride and joy.....that baby is getting the A+ treatment, I can tell.

Keep rockin' and postin' my "regal brother"! :mrgreen:

 

[southernGuild]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #1 ADDED - NECK RESET

THANKS BLUESY........Yes , Me AND that ole' Guitar are going to bond very well together......Both of us need a neck reset, were sort of 'broken', in need of repair, but full of potential ( like ALL OF US!!) and not beaten..... and are now in good hands, well onto some kind of recovery! That guitar is indeed in healing hands at Fretworks, ( cant tell ya how GREAT THAT makes me feel!) and I too see the best Doctors in Sydney ( and a team of US doctors have used me as an example patient some years ago) So I too am in healing hands too. ME and this guitar.....are metaphores of each other. 'We get by with a little help from our friends!!!'
YOU folks here , ....and the storys you all share....which are BEYOND the guitars, but about LIFE ITSELF...good, bad, hard , fun and all inbetween,... have been a great help too. WE ARE ALL on our own roads of knowing, learning, and finding out! It is GREAT to share the road with you all. "Hard trvel'in isnt SO hard when you can share it with folks like you all around here. I thank you ALL.
Now........Nuff about ME, back to this guitar..........Obviously, I CANT WAIT to get ahold of her, but, I will happily wait as long as it takes to get her all right. Dadthrash is on top of all that stuff( imagine how thankful I feel for what he is doing!) . and yea, the photos SHOW me that all is well, and that she will be coming out of there just fine! LOOK at that wood exposed!!! beautiful!!! I CANT WAIT to SEE whats coming NEXT!!! VERY COOL!!! GOOD feelings surround this Guitar!! AND... It is coming my way as a result of ALOT of little acts of kindness! Cant ask for more than THAT! I am SOoooooooo excited about her coming here one day!!!! AND I am enjoying this whole process......and glad to be sharing it with you all...one step at a time
ME AND this GUITAR are planning a fine recovery.......and a music filled future together. THATS as good as it gets!
THANKs Bluesey , my most 'Regal' brother.....THANKS you ALL ! "GUILDMANSHIP" gotta love it! Southern :wink:

 

[dadthrash]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #1 ADDED - NECK RESET

G' Day SG,
Hey...I have been studying the neck removal pictures at length.....MAN, it looks like the finish is still pretty much completely intact and hardly disturbed at all!!! Great signs that it may not require a Touch Up Refinish. Still to early to tell...but Man...Look how CLEAN the neck came off

Amazing...I have seen much worse!!! Todd's skills and care are definitely evident!!!!

Best,
MRT

PS..I appreciate all the accolades from SG and some of you...but I have the easy part....SG HAS THE HARD PARD.....
THE WAITING AND THE PAYING!!!!!!!!!!!! :roll: :roll:

 

[southernGuild]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #1 ADDED - NECK RESET

Yes indeed, I too have looked closely, and I have noticed that too. There is a site that shows all the steps of a neck reset in their gorey detail, and theirs did not come away so well! So...OH yea! I AM IMPRESSED. The right ballence of skill and care are being applied, as are pride in his workmanship! It all shows pretty clearly. I am so glad she is THERE, getting her job done! PEACE OF MIND!! hard to put a price on THAT! but , man, I got it with this one!!

As they say...."The WAITING is the hardest part", but even that is not so bad...since I can SEE whats going on. I have waited YEARS for this guitar to come up! Sooooo I can wait a bit longer ...........PAYING for such a top job? heck, Im feeling LUCKY thats getting done by someone who KNOWS what he is doing, personally CARES and takes pride in the work he does. I very much appreciate the time and energy, care and concern, he's putting in on her.........THAT , to me, goes beyond the dollar bill ( it certainly does'nt always go 'with' it.)..........so , really, even the PAYING shall bring no pain!
I am feeling very fortunate to be getting THIS guitar! ......because.... I AM!!!
CANT wait till we SEE MORE!!
Thanks, as ALWAYS Dadthrash!!!! talk to ya soon!

 

[hideglue]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #1 ADDED - NECK RESET

Great thread, And other than the 14th fret steam holes (typically 1 @ the 15th will suffice), all else looks to be on par with the norm.

 

[capnjuan]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #1 ADDED - NECK RESET

Great pics! Love that trick with the espresso machine as the steam generator.

 

[bluesypicky]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #1 ADDED - NECK RESET

Great thread, And other than the 14th fret steam holes (typically 1 @ the 15th will suffice), all else looks to be on par with the norm.

Hi Hideglue,

I guess with a name like that you would know a thing or two about loosening hidden glue ..... but his argument for the second hole, was to allow the steam to escape, hereby preventing too much wetting of the wood in this area, does this argument not hold water? (Yeah I can be funny like that.... but it's a serious question though...)

 

[hideglue]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #1 ADDED - NECK RESET

Agreed, sometimes a second hole at the dovetail aids the steam's path of least resistance. But two holes at the heel (14th), while clever, still seems unnecessary.

 

[dadthrash]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #1 ADDED - NECK RESET

UPDATE #2 - REGLUE BRIDGE - HIDE GLUE BABY!!!!!

Here are the latest updates and Pictures from Todd at Porland Fretworks. While the updates have been a little slow in coming, both SG and I agree having Todd focus on getting the work done is more important! We will take the updates as his Todd's time and busy schedule allows.

PORTLAND FRETWORKS - TODD'S UPDATE #2:
I have removed and reglued the bridge, with hide glue, and will be fitting a saddle soon. I have not reglued the neck because I decided to do some finish touch up first. The areas immediately along the heel and fingerboard joint were showing just a little bit of bare wood. But because there is such a high contrast between the dark stain Guild used and the unstained mahogany and spruce, I decided it would look a lot better with a little finish touch up. But it takes time to do since I need to lay down several thin coats with curing time between each coat.
-Todd

PORTLAND FRETWORKS - TODD'S UPDATE #2A:
I'm still working on some touch up prior to regluing the neck. I should have the neck reglued by the end of the week. Then a do a bit more touch up and will be shooting to have the guitar done before Christmas. I've included a few more pictures.
-Todd

PICTURES OF BRIDGE REGLUE PROCESS:

SG...DID YOU READ THAT!!!! SHOOTING TO HAVE THE GUITAR DONE BEFORE CHRISTMAS!!!!!!
I HOPE YOU HAVE BEEN A GOOD BOY THIS YEAR.....IF SO...SANTA IS GOING TO BE VERY GOOD TO YOU!!!!!

 

[GardMan]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #2 ADDED-BRIDGE REGLUE

Thanks... we're all keeping a keen eye out for updates! That looks like a new bridge Todd's gluing on... Did he make a new one, buy one, or just clean up the old one really well?
D

 

[bluesypicky]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #2 ADDED-BRIDGE REGLUE

Thanks for the update!!
So cool to follow this work in progress and to hear that Southern might be able to celebrate the Holidays with it!!! Keeping fingers crossed....

 

[killdeer43]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #2 ADDED-BRIDGE REGLUE

I'm keeping a close eye on this one because the object of that 'work in progress' is the spittin' image of my '79.
And I was pacing the floor for just a bridge reset! :roll:

Joe

 

[southernGuild]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #2 ADDED-BRIDGE REGLUE

THANKS EVERYONE, Man I LOVE seeing these pictures .....and seeing her being moved carefully toward completion is a real treat. Knowing she is getting an excellent job done on her brings real peace of mind and good feelings. I look at the photos and think THIS will be my guitar someday SOON? I will be playing my OWN D-25? OH YEA, I AM EXCITED!!!
Dont know if I shall have her before or after Christmas...That seems almost TOO SOON...but WHENEVER she arrives....THAT will be my Christmas morning! I aim to learn to use our digital camera so you folks can see her when she arrives.
THANKS for keeping and eye on her.
Gardman....Yep, that is her original bridge, albeit mighty clean! I'd recognise that distinctive rosewood dark "stripe" of hers anywhere.
Killdeer.....This neck reset will be giving this guitar another 30+ years , Yours too shall be 'reborn'. THIS sort of quality work, is worth every dollar. As Ive said, its a worrisome thing to have done, but knowing that she is in experienced, caring hands......well, THAT is VERY reassuring and brings much peace of mind. All the best with yours mate.
Bluesy.......Thanks for that.....It WILL be a Undeclaired HOLIDAY whenever she arrives!!!.....Man I am still STOAKED regarding your minty DV-52!!! So glad YOU got it!!! Talk about HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!! I cant wait to see that one emerge from the 'magic mirror' to give us a tune!!!
Dadthrash........WHAT can I say!!! THANK YOU!!!!! I am indebted to your kindness. YOU are making something magic happen!! ME , and my family surely appreciate what you are doing ....and oh yes, ....For his care, concern, and quality work at every step.......THANKS TODD TOO!!!!
Morning madness here....Got to get my daughter ready for school......Gotta run!!!
THANKS guys!! Southern :wink:

 

[Firebird]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #2 ADDED-BRIDGE REGLUE

SouthernGuild:

Reading this thread brings back a flood of memories when I had my D55 rebuilt from the ground up last year.

I certainly share your excitement and anticipation. My guitar was in the shop for FOUR excrutiatingly long months. It seemed like forever. I now have a brand new, 30 year old guitar and you will too.

How are the frets? Now is the time to get them replaced if needed. I had regular sized fret wire installed instead of the jumbo wire that Guild uses. I just think jumbo frets work better on electrics than acoustics.

While the bridge plate is off, you might want to consider going to a larger compensated bridge saddle. This requires cutting a larger slot. I like mine and glad I had it done. You will notice a tonal improvement with the bone nut and saddle but not for about six months. Then you'll play it one day and say "Man, this thing sounds sweeeet!"

Someday down the road I will have to get the tuners replated as all of the gold finish is starting to fall off. Interesting, all of the finish peeled off of the underside of the neck too. I had that refinished while the neck was off the guitar for the reset. Looks great now.

Trust me when I tell you that this project is money well spent. I would do it all again in a heartbeat.

God be with you my friend.

 

[GardMan]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #2 ADDED-BRIDGE REGLUE

Interesting, all of the finish peeled off of the underside of the neck too.

I think that is a sign of a padouk neck... apparently, it's an oily wood that is hard to get a finish to adhere to. I do believe that D-55s of some era had padouk necks... but might be wrong.

 

[southernGuild]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #2 ADDED-BRIDGE REGLUE

THANKS FIREBIRD for your imput and kind words....great to hear from you too! ...Yes, It will be great to have a 30+ year old 'new guitar' to spend my time and energy with...She will take me to a new level without a doubt! and,.....I AM EXCITED!!! Man, I have wanted a D-25M since the early 70's..........NOW is my time!
Ive opted to keep the saddle as it was at this point....all 'original' sort of set up, except for the little upgrades to bone, but I appreciate your advice there, time will tell if i do anything further to her. I considered a pickup installation, but thought against it as I'd seldom use that at all ( right now at least) . I'd like her to be my personal, songwriting guitar. no need to amp her up. This guitar was hardly played at all, belonged to a woodwind player who decided to give guitar a try. So, the frets are fine for now, however........If I am going to playing her as much as i anticipate and expect to.......well, A refret will be in order in the near future I suppose. I will consider that option.
That D-55 MUST be pretty special to you, and make a mighty good sound. I agree with Gardman, the Paduak neck....Strong and good, but a bit too oily to hold a finish. Man, that sounds like a HUGE job all in all. When you take a guitar this far, and renew her....of course they are going to be that much more special to us......and be appreciated just THAT much more!
THIS one ,like you with your one.....to be held close, played, enjoyed, and appreciated. ALOT of human goodness and kindness comes with this guitar.........and i am feeling quite blessed to be getting it.
Thanks FB, ........and may the Good Lord bless you and yours as well. Cheers Southern :wink:

 

[dadthrash]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - UPDATE #2 ADDED-BRIDGE REGLUE

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO SOUTHERN GUILD!

RESTORATION COMPLETE!

SHIP DATE TO AUSTRALIA IS JAN. 4TH, 2010!

SouthernGuild was surprised today with a Christmas Email (it is Christmas already in Australia). He was informed that the Guitar is complete,pictures were sent, and sound clips also. The Guitar "did not loose any Vintage Vibe at All!!!...if anything it gained in blend and balance....

More pictures and sound clips will be added to the LTG as I can after the Holidays!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO SOUTHERN GUILD!!!!!!!

It has been a Complete Honor and a Complete Pleasure to be invovled with Restoration Project. I cannot wait for him to receive the Guitar and Hear how awesome it is...Guild "Vintage Vibe" at it's Best!

I have Christened it the "SUPER NATURAL" course SG can re-christen it when he gets it!

My Pleasure and My Honor,
MRT

 

[Nigel Wickwire]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION - COMPLETE - SHIP DATE 01/04/10

Wow! More good pictures. That D25 looks better than the day she rolled off the assembly line in Westerly!


Nice work, men!

~nw

 

[the super8]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION COMPLETE! PIC'S - SHIPS 1/04/10

My family and I will be passing through Portland coming and going from Vashon Island to Corvalis... is there any chance we could stop by and meet you and the D25? My own '91 D25, (slightly the worse for wear,) will be traveling with us and would probably be thrilled to see its elder brother!

 

[GardMan]

Re: 1977 GUILD D-25M RESTORATION COMPLETE! PIC'S - SHIPS 1/04/10

She looks real good! Happy New Year!

I'd be real interested in a "hands-on" evaluation of the work... and the final cost (can PM that or both, if you prefer discretion)... I've got a couple that I might consider driving up to Portland this summer for a consultation...
Dave