Thanks, that's just what I need. I think I will stick to the original color, but I like the tinted clear coat idea. I know people have opinions about restorations but somebody already botched this one some time ago. Maybe I can make mine a close twin of yours Erv
One tuner pan has holes in it, another is a little bit nicked up. A couple of them have a bit of pitting in the chrome, so I may be looking for a couple pans in addition to the bridge covers. As this is an early long scale it doesn't look like the Kluson repro's will cut it.
As far as the parting out old guitars, I have mixed feelings. I would hope nobody is deliberately breaking up guitars in very good or pristine condition, but when a guitar is just run down and worn out and nobody wants it or wants to play it, why not? The only place most of these parts can go is into another Stringmaster that needs them. There aren't enough parts to go around for ALL of them to be whole.
Control plates are fairly clean. Diamonds too. Probably use new screws throughout. I do love the chrome pickup covers.
The legs are brand new high quality repro's already, since it didn't come with any.
The body is in good shape overall. There are a few nicks and dings but not too many big gouges that will need much filler and sanding.
The original case is structurally sound, functioning latches and handle, but hard worn interior and exterior, looks bad.
Supposedly this is a 1954. My Console Grande is also a 54 (and sounds wonderful). Once I get this disassembled I can check the pickups. They may need a rewind, or maybe just set aside and install some Lollars? Or it may just be the old pots/cap and wiring are shot, too many unknowns yet. I get sound from each neck, but doesn't mean all pickups are working. Blend knob has an effect but just not getting good tone. Like I said, I haven't put decent strings on or dialed in an amp for it.
Here are the old logos
