ilovefuzz.com

So, I've been considering doing some stuff to my Epi Les Paul; I'm wondering how much I could get away with DIY-ing. It's a "Classic" Epi, which as far as i know just means a Standard with no pup covers. This is what I'd like to do:

- new electronics

- humbucker-sized P90s

- Tremolo arm install (leaning towards the Schaller les paul model; no drilling and looks okay - or would with a Vibrola-style arm)

- PAINT IT PINK (dunno what I'd do to the back, probably matching). Solid color.

Also possibly a push/pull pot for out of phase. No Idea what that'd sound like w/ P94s or whatever, but I'm assuming it sounds thinner, like on a Mustang. Plus minor things like knobs.

The main reason for asking is I'm trying to estimate costs. I don't wanna end up paying so much I'm better off buying a new guitar, but the guitar has some sentimental value (not enough to not mod, but enough to not wanna sell). It doesn't really do it for me 100% sound- or appearancewise. It's a cheapish-looking sunburst with pretty bad humbuckers/electronics. I severely despise its "Look at me, I'm like Slash!" vibe and wish to demasculinize it (paint it pink, like I said).

How good can I expect the finish to turn out if I'm thorough/careful but have no prior experience? I'm guessing the binding complicates things.. I suppose I could sand/remove the original finish myself, then have it professionally painted depending on how much that is.

I have no experience soldering either but will probably do a pedal build or two to practice (or get my soldering friend involved).

I probably forgot a bunch of questions.. Very much still in the possibly maybe stage here but I'd really like to have an idea of what is realistic. Thanks a lot for any thoughts/feedback!

I have painted a few of my guitars and it is pretty simple as long as you are careful and follow some basic rules: I am fortunate because they have all been bolt on necks.
As far as the stripping, I usually start with that orange scented stuff you can get at walmart.
Not sure about the binding as I usually just take it off (long time hater of binding): On the Epi it might be plastic or paint, it will probably come right off
It is crazy important to strip, properly sand, clean the guitar or whatever paint you put on will be very frustrating.
Make sure you tape over the Neck and anything you don't want stripper and paint on: LOTS OF TAPE

As far as the electronics, I generally think guitar electronics are way easier than pedal electronics (NO POWER), pretty much basic soldering: You should check out guitarfetish.com for pickups and parts, everything I have purchased from them has been good quality and pretty cheap, plus it's not like you are trying to find exact parts for an old Gibson LP:

This looks like a wiring diagram close to want you want
Although it is HB pickups it should be about the same
http://www.guitarelectronics.com/produc ... Phase.html

I wouldn't refinish an epi at all. you can just pawn it and get a different color. its just not worth the money for a $300 guitar IMO. your better saving your money and trading it in for something better. just be careful with gibson, the quality control is hit or miss. I worked at a gibson dealer and we had a few explorers and V's that had frets filed down to the fretboard on the 22nd fret on a new $1200 guitar