Considering a nice 1980s Gretsch Kit but fear the set screw issue where these non-bolt set-screws can strip out of the lugs - heard it has caused some quite an problem - how do you avoid it and fix it? Should I be worried?
any input will help me make a decision-cheers!
I haven't run into any problems on my 80's Gretsch. They used self tapping screws into the lugs. As long as you leave them alone they should be fine. If you take the lugs off for some reason you'd need to exercise extra caution and maybe try to keep the same screws with the lugs they go to. If you're careful there shouldn't be any problem.
That all kind of applies to any vintage lugs. Even the ones with tapped holes can break when backing a screw in or out.
I did take the lugs off my 1987 USA Customs back after I bought them (to stuff them with cotton) and I didn't know there was a problem, nor did I experience any trouble despite not being particularly careful.
I think that modern Gretsch imported hardware no longer use the self tapping screws, that was just at the tail end of the American made hardware.
The problem with the early 80's kit was the self taping screws as they cut through the lugs, the very tips have some metal on them, you want to remove that metal, before putting them back into the lugs. I learned this lesson the hard way when my then new custom ordered Gretsch Bonham sized kit. Luckily Gretsch replaced the 4 lugs that stripped out for me.
It's pot luck with those lugs & screws......If u need to remove them for what ever reason try tightning & loosening them carefully as u back them out. Some lugs might be fine some might strip out. The good news is the one's that do strip out u can re-tap to 10-32.
This would require them to be drilled out and re-tapped. I would use a stainless steel Phillips screws of the appropriate length (most likely 3/8" long)
The most important thing is to use cutting oil / tapping fluid when u re tap.
Any problems just ask..... I done many of these.
Larry
