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Topic: What is the micro-thread size on the Carter pull rods |
Jacek Jakubek
From:
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
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Posted 24 Jun 2008 6:48 pm |
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Hello,
I have read here on the forum to use a 4-40 die for threading 3/32" pull rods.
I notice that the thread on the original pull rods that came with my Carter guitar is much smaller than 4-40. It looks almost like this micro-thread is twice as fine as the 4-40 thread. I think this small thread has to be especially made for screwing on the nylon tuners, because it looks too small to be used for screwing on metal bolts.
Does anyone know what size this micro-thread is and if there is a die available in this size?
Also, does this smaller thread make a noticeable difference in the tuning precision when you're tuning
with the nylon tuners? |
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Jerry Overstreet
From:
Louisville Ky
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Posted 28 Jun 2008 6:10 am
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Jacek, I don't know anything about the Carter rod size. As far as thread size [TPI] the common fine thread measurement for a #4 screw is 48 threads per in. [NF4-48]. The 4-40 would be NC...coarse.
Most large scale machine and tool suppliers would carry this size die. Maybe do an online search. I believe Votaw Tool has dies this size at a really reasonable price or perhaps Tapco.
Yes, the finer the threads, the easier precise tuning increments can be made. |
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Scott Swartz
From:
St. Louis, MO
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Posted 28 Jun 2008 7:54 am
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I don't know the pitch of the Carter rods, but I can tell you that I have made rods for my Carter using a #3-48 die on 3/32 rod and it works fine, and the 4-40 also works. For the 3-48 you have to sand a 1/4 inch long conical taper on the rod to get the die started. A 4-40 die will not make full height threads since the outside diameter of a full #4 thread is about .110 (and the rod is .094), but it works fine in practice.
The Carter pitch I think is even finer than 48 as you say. As mentioned in the other thread, the Cater rod is not made with a die, it is rolled. The thread form is squashed out by running it through a rolling machine. That's why if you look close or measure the outside diameter of the thread is larger than the rod itself.
Making rods yourself with a die will work fine, worst case you will just have to use a fresh tuning nut, which is good practice anyway.
_________________
Scott Swartz
Steeltronics - Steel Guitar Pickups
www.steeltronics.com |
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Paul Redmond
From:
Illinois, USA
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Posted 29 Jun 2008 12:57 am
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Use a #4-40 die and you'll do fine even though the thread, as mentioned, will not be a 100% thread. Works well on the Willie's among others.
PRR |
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Bill Ford
From:
Graniteville SC Aiken
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Posted 29 Jun 2008 4:11 am
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Jacek,
Unless you are going to do a lot of threading, I would suggest cutting your rods to length, and having a machine shop thread them for you. A good quality 4-40, or similar size die will cost about $50.00. Do not get a cheap ($9.95) die set at a discount tool store, the sizes below #10 are not accurate. Also, if you only need one, or two...call Carter. Without having a special forming tool, the end that hooks to the bellcrank would be sorta tricky to bend. The later models have a "Shepherds" staff ? shape.
Bill
_________________
Bill Ford S12 CLR, S12 Lamar keyless, Misc amps&toys Sharp Covers
Steeling for Jesus now!!! |
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Paul Redmond
From:
Illinois, USA
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Posted 29 Jun 2008 4:23 pm
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Bill - I buy name-brand dies from ENCO Inc. right online for peanuts and have the stuff UPS in 48 hours or less. A die (adjustable, no less) and a holder should run about $25.00 with shipping and should last for years to come. An adjustable die can be re-sharpened in the flute area with a small mounted wheel in a Dremel tool and be re-adjusted if necessary.
PRR |
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