It's creative chaos on the workbench! Between two stages of a build Vibeworks Guitars, It's time to address the safety of another guitar. Because there's nothing worse than seeing your favorite guitar kiss the floor due to a broken strap, and you don't "go to war sitting in a chair." Today we're installing a classic: the Dunlop Straplocks.
Here is a summary of the installation, combining perseverance and luthier's tricks.
The Anatomy of the Straplock Kit
Before diving into the assembly, here's what you'll find in the box (and on the workbench):
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The buttons (pins) and screws: To be attached directly to the guitar.
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Protective felt pads: Essential to avoid marking the varnish or wood.
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The locking system: A spring-loaded piece that "traps" the strap.
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The giant washer and the circlip (the famous lock): This holds everything together on the belt.
Step 1: Prepare the Guitar
We start by removing the old strap buttons.
The little extra: If you have any handmade leather washers, save them for another project! For this build, we're using the felts provided in the kit.
Pro tip: lubrication. Installing the first screw can be tricky (sometimes a little too much so, due to "dangerous pride"). Don't skip the second screw: lubricate the threads (with a little soap or wax). This avoids unnecessarily forcing the wood and reduces the risk of breaking the screw in the guitar body.
Step 2: The fight with the strap (The "Sandwich")
This is where things get complicated, especially with a nice thick leather strap.
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The assembly: The locking rod is placed through the strap, then the large washer is added to the back.
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Compression: You have to compress the leather very hard to free the notch on the shaft. If the leather is thick, you have to "force it like crazy".
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The Circlip (the C lock): This is the step that requires patience. You have to slide this small clip into the notch to lock everything in place.
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The tool: Use pliers, but be careful. It's a perfect recipe for pinching your fingers (or scratching the leather if you slip).
Step 3: Verification and Locking
Once the clip is properly engaged (you should hear or see it securely in its rail), the system is secure.
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Use : Press the central ball button to insert the block into the guitar button.
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Result : Total freedom of movement (360°) and disconnection impossible without voluntary action.
Conclusion: Ready for the stage!
Even though the workbench is in disarray, the "lady" is now ready. The Dunlop Straplocks may be a bit protruding aesthetically, but the peace of mind they provide while playing standing up is priceless.
We gather the tools (searching for the pliers for 5 minutes if necessary) and move on to the next part of the build!
