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zozoe
New
Username: zozoe

Post Number: 1
Registered: 8-2008
Posted on Wednesday, August 20, 2008 - 1:36 pm:   Edit Post

Great site that I just joined. I own a mint 6 string series I guitar, I believe SN 343 77, that I have had for nearly 25 years, but when I last tried to remove the back plate that covers the electronics, I could not. I dare not force it off with anything larger than a toothpick, but what's my next best shot with,, a rubber mallet? ALSO, if needed, are there any authorized repair people in or around the NYC area, or should any electronic repair work go back to Alembic?
Thanks all!!
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 5463
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Wednesday, August 20, 2008 - 2:13 pm:   Edit Post

Hi Kenny,

We don't have any "authorized" repair centers at all, but that doesn't mean there aren't qualified locals available to work on your instrument. Some things (like electronics upgrades) can only be done here at the shop.

It sounds like the wood has shrunk more than the brass (are there any cracks in the back laminate that start at the screws?). You might be able to wiggle the plate by placing your palm flat on it and pushing with a small amount of force, then rotating your hand at the wrist. Hold the guitar with your other hand or clamp to a table or it won't be effective.

Using a hex driver to pry at one of the holes is how we do it here. Note that if it's really stuck fast, the finish might get damaged as the plate releases.

You could also try coming at the plate through the 1/4" jack like this:
pop plate
But you have to use something small like the Xcelite screwdriver shown so you don't damage the connector.

If you manage to get the plate free, remove the PF-6 card and sand the edge of the brass plate so you won't have a repeat performance.

The serial number isn't quite right, so if you can recheck that it would be great.

If you need us to do an electronics upgrade, then you might want to just leave the plate in place (with screws of course) when you send it in and let us worry about it.
zozoe
New
Username: zozoe

Post Number: 2
Registered: 8-2008
Posted on Wednesday, August 20, 2008 - 2:29 pm:   Edit Post

Great,,,,you mean I can go straight thru that 1/4" input & hit the back panel? Good to know. It's been a while since I plugged it in, but everything should be working fine,,I just want the panel to be as it should. I typed the SN wrong,,it's def. 1977, but either #324, or 342. I'll check & get back to you. I'm a bit curious as to it's heritage.
Thanks, Kenny
zozoe
New
Username: zozoe

Post Number: 3
Registered: 8-2008
Posted on Wednesday, August 20, 2008 - 5:48 pm:   Edit Post

I was way off with the SN#, it's 77 891. Is there an historical info available on this guitar? Kenny
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 6935
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Thursday, August 21, 2008 - 8:30 am:   Edit Post

Hi Kenny; welcome to the board!

Happy to hear that you got the plate off ok!

I've moved your serial number request thread to the Serial Number Request section.

Thanks,

David

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