Luke 2 2005 Ltd Edition neck plate query...

[applemacintosh]

Hi all,

Just wanted to say hello (seeing as I've just joined and this is my first post) and also see if anyone can help out with a small query.

I own two Lukes - one from 1998 with a Floyd in that blackberry colour (don't know its exact name) and a recently acquired Luke 2005 Limited Edition in buttercream with matching headstock. My query is:

How come the Luke 2 2005 LE doesn't have a recessed neck plate when my Luke 1 and other normal Luke 2's have recessed ones? I still love the guitar, but can't work out why that sculpted heel is just not quite as finished off as it should be...

Any theories or reasons appreciated!

Mike

 

[beej]

Hi Mike!

The recessed neck plates were discontinued a few years back. Over-zealous tightening of the neck screws could result in some cracking of the finish around the plate. So EBMM stopped recessing 'em.

 

[PeteDuBaldo]

EB no longer does the recessed neck plates. I believe the official reason is
"overzealous tightening of the neck plate screws by so-called repair techs caused paint chips in that area"


Beej, I gotta learn to type faster!

 

[applemacintosh]

Ahhh thanks guys! Makes sense

Don't suppose EBMM could've used some simple innovation to prevent it - rounding off the edges of the underside of the plate so its beveled edge doesn't cut into the corner of the woods routing... but I guess thats the hard way to fix it!

Shame really as I love the flat feel unde my palm over those upper registers...

Ahh well, best get back to searching the net for the next axe - a MM99 loaded Axis. Just need to get that body finish decided upon - natural, metalflake or a rosewood one... and the umming and ahh over whether I need a piezo or not!

 

[Big Poppa]

Remember also that we are painting guitars in the Peoples Republic of California and as the environmental regulations change the finishing material that we are allowed to use almost always has a thicker build and makes recessing neck plates very difficult.

 

[puppyonacid]

Hey applemac. Guess what? I'm in Bolton as well!!! Small world eh! If ya ever fancy maybe swapping licks and trying out a JP gimme a shout. I got my eye on the LE Luke . I always have this thing at the back of my mind telling me I need a Luke!

 

[beej]

Beej, I gotta learn to type faster!

 

[jongitarz]

It was also common for the buffers to buff through the finish on the recessed neckplates. The buffing wheel would dig into the pocket and ruin the lip. I have a Sport with the recessed plate and a Super Sport with out. They both feel great, and it has never been a problem as far as I am concerned. Can't really feel a difference.

 

[Big Poppa]

Thanks Jon I was hoping noone would mention the ease of manufacturing! I wanted to blame it on the politicians....

 

[jongitarz]

Well, yeah, there is that. As I understand it, if BP farts he gets nailed by the EPA.

If any of you want to start a mfg company, don't even consider California. We are lucky that BP hasn't taken the company to another state.

 

[Mick]

BP´s new avatar is directly from the CIA picture vault.

Jon, can´t you imaging living in indonesia. ? ;-)