Sound hole Volume/tone control Removal

[JavelinaJoe]

I need some advice on how to safely remove the volume/tone control module from my D-55. It's glued in and I don't want to do something stupid. The Fishman Matrix Infinity preamp stopped turning on, so I removed it and sent it to Fishman for repair. They sent me back an entirely new unit with new, updated volume/tone control module that I would like to install to replace the existing one. I've read that you can use acetone to soften up CA glue, but I concerned about how it could affect the finish. I can also just start working at it with an exacto knife. Maybe a little of both? Need some sound advice.

Thanks, JJ

 

[chazmo]

Actually, JJ, I have no idea how they affix the Fishman system to the underside of the soundboard. Definitely need to be careful about this. I hope somebody with some knowledge can advise.

p.s./ I'd surely call Guild and ask them. They may tell you to take it to a luthier, but they should also pay for that.

 

[GAD]

Wait, this is a current Oxnard guitar?

 

[JavelinaJoe]

No, its's for my 2000 D-55. I installed the Fishman Matrix myself. It was an older unit I picked up used. Per Fishman's instructions I placed a drop of CA glue on the mounting pad. I've contacted Fishman to see what they have to say.

 

[chazmo]

Oh, I'm sorry, Joe. I read your signature, and I thought you were talking about a new guitar. Ignore my comments about Guild fixing it. Sorry.

 

[JavelinaJoe]

No worries. I took the D-55 off my list as I am getting it ready to sell. I just need to get this new preamp installed and tested before I list it.

 

[adorshki]

No worries. I took the D-55 off my list as I am getting it ready to sell. I just need to get this new preamp installed and tested before I list it.

Never heard of anything "softening"" CA bonds but be aware acetone is also specifically an NCL solvent. It also occurs to me since wood is porous the bond itself may not be all that strong. CA's supposed to depend on absence of oxygen to cure properly.

 

[JavelinaJoe]

Yeah, using acetone on NCL does not sound like a very good idea. Fishman's instructions were to put a little wood glue on the area first to fill the pores of the wood before you install the control module. I did that as instructed. I did get advice from a luthier to use a micro saw and carefully saw through the CA glue. I think that is the best approach at this point.

 

[JavelinaJoe]

I was able to remove the V/T module by gently pulling on it until it kind of popped loose. The old unit is on the left side, new one on the right. I can see and feel that the CA glue remained and whatever it is they have stuck on top of the unit is what gave way. When pulled on, the remnants were like old rubber cement. Now all I have to do is scrape off the old glue, sand it a little to smooth the area back down and I can install the new control module. Whew! Came out easier than I thought.