The Steel Guitar Forum

I recently bought a T-8 three neck console Fender steel guitar and would like to try and date it, it has #9901 near the output jack. I believe it was made in the early 1950's. Also, would like suggestions for a volume pedal? Thanks so much.

First question, what are the pickups? Twin per neck, or trapezoid chrome ones by the bridge? That'll tell you whether it is a Stringmaster or a Custom (respectively).

As for dating...you can do pot dating (not as accurate due to possible replacement and pot manufacture not necessarily equalling the guitar manufacture date) but by far your best bet is to remove tuner pans and look for a pencil'ed date under the pans on the unfinished wood. That's usually the easiest way to date them.

Thanks Nic. It has the trapezoid pickups, and so I believe it is not a Stringmaster. You are right, I am having to repair the tuning trays because of string slippage and I found 8/54! Thanks again.