What do the numbers stand for? How - if at all - can I measure the threading of a screw, so that I could order the correct size from a hardware supplier instead of paying pharmacy prices at a guitar store? (1 retainer clip at .25 $ vs. 5.70 $ for 100.)

Sizes I need to know:
- socket set screw for rod collars, 1/8" long (5/64" allen head): thread size?
- endplate tuning screws, 1" long (7/64" allen head): thread size?
- Halftone tuner screw w/lengthwise bore, 1 1" long, 3/16" OD, 1/8" ID (5/32 allen head): thread size?
- Flat Head Slotted Wood Screw for L-brackets, 1/2" long, head OD 5/16", shaft OD 5/32": screw size number?
- pedal rods (5/32" OD): thread size of hex barrel?
- Round Head Machine Screw, holding keyhead: thread size?
- Flat Head Machine Screw securing the neck to the body, 3/4" long, 1/8" OD: Thread size?

As always: any help is greatly appreciated!

Rainer

P.S. Wouldn't it be great if we had a data base of all measurements, parts lists and other relevant info, including alternate suppliers, for those guitars that are no longer in production? It would make shopping for replacement parts a whole lot easier.

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Remington D-10 8+7, Sierra Crown D-10 gearless 8+8, Sierra Session S-14 gearless 8+5, '77 Emmons D-10 8+4, Sho~Bud Pro-I 3+5, Fender Artist D-10 8+4, Peavey Session 400 LTD, Peavey Vegas 400

1. The first number refers to an arbitrary screw size established a long long time ago.

3. The second number refers to how many theads per inch.

So a 6-32 always means:

1. A number 6 screw (established norm approx 3/32" in diameter)

2. There are 32 threads per inch.

Note: screw sizes below 1/4 inch, use these arbitrary "norm" numbers that were established; and for all practical purposes begin with "0000" up to number 12. Which is approx 3/16" in diameter.

Once the screw size reaches 1/4 inch, then the first number represents the diameter of the screw. Examples:

1. 1/4-20 means the screw is 1/4" in diameter and it has 20 threads per inch.

2. 1/2-13 means the screw is 1/2 inch in diameter and has 13 threads per inch.

To the best of my knowledge (since I no longer own a P/P) the following is correct:

1. The rod collar set screw is an 8-32 by 1/16" long allen setscrew. NOT easy to find in that short length.

2. The Knee lever bracket screws are slotted (as opposed to phillips) wood type screws; number 6 by 1/2 inch long. I have seen some number 8's here as well.

3. Endplate tuning screws are 6-32 allen head capscrews.

4. Half-tone tuner is a 10-32 allen head cap screw that has been drilled thru so the pull rod will go thru it.

5. Pedal rod threads are 10-32.

6. Round head machine screw holding key head to body is 10-32.

7. Slotted screws holding neck onto body is 8-32. Some are phillips 8-32 screws used here.

Again, I do not have my P/P any longer; or I would measure them for you. So the above is to the best of my recollection. I stand corrected on any errors. And apologize in advance.

May Jesus bless you in your quests,

carl

[This message was edited by C Dixon on 27 February 2004 at 12:26 PM.]

Do you have a set of inch (0-1") micrometers?

Look here for some fastener dimension specs http://www.newyorktwistdrill.com/taps_technical_data_01.html

[This message was edited by Ray Minich on 27 February 2004 at 12:22 PM.]

also : http://www.fandisc.com/tti.htm

[This message was edited by Ray Minich on 27 February 2004 at 12:26 PM.]

For a real treat check out: http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/MJVanVoorhis/techdata.htm

[This message was edited by Ray Minich on 27 February 2004 at 12:35 PM.]

The most detailed screw info is at: http://www.protech-dmfg.com/SharedThreadsMain.htm

[This message was edited by Ray Minich on 27 February 2004 at 12:56 PM.]

Select the 0-80 thru 1/4 external.

[This message was edited by Ray Minich on 27 February 2004 at 12:58 PM.]

so the arbitrary first number is similar to the arbitrary screw bit sizes e.g. Philips or Pozidrive No.1, 2, 3? Higher numbers mean greater diameter?

Where could I find the corresponding diameters for, say, numbers 4 to 12?

The number of threads per inch: if a 1/8" long and 5/32" OD screw has 4 threads, is it safe to assume that it is an 8-32?

Ray,
I have a slide caliper that has a metric (mm) and an inch scale (in 16th), but no micrometer in inches. Converting millimeters to inches mathematically gives me decimals which are a bear to express in fractions.

Off topic: I really wish y'all could find it in your heart to join the rest of the world in the metric system. Hey, if the British can do it ... It wouldn't solve my current problems, though.

Ray, I didn't see your edited post while I was typing my reply. Thanks a whole lot! I'll check out the websites.

[This message was edited by Rainer Hackstaette on 27 February 2004 at 01:29 PM.]

quote:

---

"so the arbitrary first number is similar to the arbitrary screw bit sizes e.g. Philips or Pozidrive No.1, 2, 3? Higher numbers mean greater diameter?

Where could I find the corresponding diameters for, say, numbers 4 to 12?

The number of threads per inch: if a 1/8" long and 5/32" OD screw has 4 threads, is it safe to assume that it is an 8-32?"

---

Ok one at a time.

The answer is "YES" to the first question.

The diameter of a given screw "size" is NOT consistent between types of screws. IE, a wood screw versus a "machine" screw. There are charts. I am looking at one now from a "Small Parts" supplier in the US. But usually no reference is ever given for the diameter, sadly.

But the following would be applicable to all machine screws I am pretty sure.

Example in this book:

1. 4-40 bolt--0.1120 inches (in diameter)

2. 6-32 bolt--0.1380 inches.

3. 8-32 bolt--0.1640 inches

4. 10-32 bolt--0.1900 inches

The answer to the last question is "YES"

Take care friend,

carl

[This message was edited by C Dixon on 27 February 2004 at 02:53 PM.]

Not only does Mr.Dixon have the knowledge and know how,his manner in conducting himself is a credit to this Forum. Since I have been with knowledgeable people all of my life as a Fender sales rep,it is a plus and a privledge for those of you who seek information that few can answer. Mr.Dixon is always willing to help in his unselfish manner.

Thank You Mr.Dixon for your valuable contributiions to those who look to you for information. Thank you for all your help. Good luck and I hope you keep helping those of us who need the help for another 50 years.

Best to you my friend.

Although I have never met him in person I too have observed that when Carl makes a statement on this forum, he makes every effort to say it clearly, truthfully, and in a helpful and constructive manner. He is most certainly a credit to the Steel Guitar Forum and to the steel guitar community. And so are you Jody!

I am humbled and honored you feel this way. Whatever one posseses that is good, all thanks go to our Precious Savior. For when we go with HIM, all things turn out good.

carl