So my first build won't be my Warmoth...

[Disco Scottie]

Because I don't want to screw anything up on it. That's why I cobbled together all the pieces-parts for a basic Strat on eBay. Total cost was about $90 which includes a painted body, satin finished 21 fret neck and all the various hardware and stuff. This way I can drill like crap, solder like poop, sand like a loser (back of the neck for practice) and I won't want to shoot myself after doing so. I've always been the kind who learns by doing, and usually does it better the next time. I feel much better now.

One thing I just realized I didn't get... wire for soldering. Again I no nothing, I'm a total virgin, so what do I need, what does it cost, and where do I get it? This practice build is your typical 3 single coils on a pickguard with 1 volume and 2 tones.

 

[Rickgrxbass]

Do you have the potentiometers, switch, and capacitor? if so, http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Electronics,_pickups/Supplies:_Wiring_kits/Basic_Wiring_Package.html

Otherwise, http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Electronics,_pickups/Supplies:_Wiring_kits/Wiring_Kit_for_Stratocaster.html

 

[RiverCity28]

I ordered my solder on-line from Amazon (actually, one of their merchants).  Unfortunately, it disappeared in transit . . . the box arrived empty.  Anyway, Amazon immediately refunded my money and I just decided to purchase the solder locally from one of our computer/electronics parts suppliers.  I'm sure your area probably has one . . . if not, then on-line is the way to go.  I bought a 60/40 rosin-core solder; something like THIS.

My local store didn't have 1mm, so I bought .88mm and 1.29mm so I could have options depending upon the size of what I am soldering.  I used the larger size to pool solder on the back of the pots for ground.

I was told to invest in a good soldering station to make quality connections.  I went with the HAKKO 936.  The variable temperature range is a needed feature.

BTW, the Seymour Duncan site has great illustrations for a variety of pickup & switch/pot combinations.

 

[RiverCity28]

BTW, I purchased my MIM  strat for cheap on Craigslist and had my tech replace the pickups, all electronics (pots, switch, jack, etc.), and tuners.  I should have replaced the bridge and nut as well.  Actually, "I" should have used it as my first project guitar like you are now planning for yours . . . oh, well, you know what they say about hindsight.

ALLPARTS is a great place to find quality replacement pots and switches.  Depending upon the overall quality of your recent purchase(s), you might seriously consider purchasing better electronics.  Pots, jacks  and switches are VERY inexpensive.  You might even look at using no load pots for your tone control so that you can cut out the capacitor when desired and hear the unadulterated pickups.  Replacing standard tuners with something like Schaller mini-locking tuners is also a very good investment if you want your guitar to staying in better tune and allow for easier string changes.

Finally, I acquired a variety of capacitors in different styles and ratings to "interview" with my new build.  I'll using a couple of wired alligator clips to test my sound using each of the 10 or so capacitors.  Do they truly sound different?  If so, I'll know before I finish my final soldering a pickguard close-in.

 

[AutoBat]

I recommend lead-free solder, 'cause who needs to be inhaling extra lead?

 

[Velcro]

I suggest rubbing linseed oil into your triceps and lower calfs before soldering, I use solder laced with rosemary and jasmin. My plectrums are made out of hemp, amd my strings are made out of my chest hair.

 

[Cagey]

I recommend lead-free solder, 'cause who needs to be inhaling extra lead?

Easy solution: Don't use your soldering iron as an eating utensil, and just in general, don't eat solder. As far as inhaling it goes, I'm not aware of any soldering irons capable of getting anywhere near the vaporization temperature of lead, and even if they could reach the 1,750 degrees necessary, inhaling it would be least of your problems. I'd put the danger involved right about on a par with worrying about burning your chest hair while a chainsaw rips through your ribcage.

 

[Disco Scottie]

I suggest rubbing linseed oil into your triceps and lower calfs before soldering, I use solder laced with rosemary and jasmin. My plectrums are made out of hemp, amd my strings are made out of my chest hair.

I am taking notes, I will follow your instructions to the letter!

 

[Disco Scottie]

Thanks guys, for the links to solder and pickup wire... I need both, so that helps. I'm not expecting much from this guitar. If it comes out playable I'll be happy, but the most important thing is being able to do the work on it properly. I figure if I can't get a simple Strat build up and running, I have no business even thinking about assembling my Warmoth.

Provided this goes well, I'm also planning to upgrade my Highway One strat (older version with small headstock) with a new pickguard, DiMarzio Area 67 pups and a Chromacaster.