Installing a GK-3 External on a Strat

[Serenarules]

Greetings all,

I am in the process of building a very nice Stratocaster with S&D Classic Stack pickups and an original Floyd Rose tremolo. I plan to add an external GK-3 to it as well, which is where my questions come in.

I wish to hard-mount the GK-3 using screws and springs for better adjustment. While there is plenty of space on the pickguard, between the bridge and first pickup to place the hex-pickup, I worry about the cavity underneath. It seems that the screw closest to the control cavity will only penetrate the pickguard.

1. Is mounting to the pickguard sufficient?
2. If not, would replacing that particular screw with the same size bolt-and-nut combination be required?

I am more than familiar with most installation videos on the internet and the Roland site, as well as having downloaded the PDF manual. I have also read most of the posts on V-Guitar forum by the user named "UpDown". But none directly related to my exact questions. Any actual user testimony and tips would be appreciated before I begin this step.

Thanks, Drew.

 

[swarfrat]

I found mounting to the pickguard sets the GK3 WAY too high unless you have the neck shimmed. I cut out my pickguard for it, planning to redo a nicer job later (when i get back to the project)

 

[Serenarules]

I see. I may just get a GC-1 for this application then. It's probably better anyway, since I won't have to worry about spacing so much, or those external cords.

 

[swarfrat]

Here's my thread:
http://unofficialwarmoth.com/index.php?topic=25269.msg365094#msg365094

Here's what I tried to do to my pickguard. It works as a prototype. I'd like to resolder my GK3 pickup to the underside and remove the short cord above the pickguard (currently i have a hole drilled through the pickguard so it only shows about 1" above the pickguard. It doesn't look bad, but I'd like it to look cleaner.)

 

[Serenarules]

Thanks, but there are some problems.

1) I was going to use the external one, not the internal kit. I do not have the skill for that level of modification.
2) My body is routed SSS. If I cut the pickguard like that, there would only be enough wood to mount the top screw.

You see what I mean?

 

[pabloman]

There's a mounting plate out there that mounts over the top sort of like a pickup ring but then screws into the pickguard screws on both sides of the term. Check eBay. I'll see if I can't find some pics.