Neck joining options

Kevs-the-name · Mar 2, 2015

Hi there.

As part of my first build, I need to make an informed decision regarding the neck joining process.

I recognise that there is plenty of info already, and this has caused many argument etc! (I have used the search option!!!)

However, The kit that I purchased provided a ‘biscuit’ joint (with the suggestion of using araldite glue) although I can’t find any one who uses this option.

My neck is cut flush and the top and bottom of the box are sealed. - as yet, the fretboard is not attached.

What would YOU advise please?

Thanks in advance
KEV

Sven · Mar 2, 2015

Machine screw and barrel bolt I'd say. I use a jig, it's in the links below.

http://argapa.blogspot.se/2014/02/new-jig.html

http://argapa.blogspot.se/2014/09/setting-neck.html

Kevs-the-name · Mar 2, 2015

Hi Sven, thanks for your links.

this looks like a great Jig. love the idea, just I don’t have the skills (yet)!

unfortunately, I have glued the top and bottom on already. I think it will be difficult to bolt from the inside?

Sven · Mar 2, 2015

Nah, with the right screw you could use an allen key with a ball end through the soundhole. No skills required. And you could get it done without a jig, just measure carefully. The advantage is you can check andadjust alignment as much as you need before glueing.

Kevs-the-name · Mar 2, 2015

I take it that this method requires me to have some kind of ‘insert’ for the bolt to go in to?

no biscuit, no dowel?

which glue then?
thanks again

Beau Hannam Ukuleles · Mar 2, 2015

Threaded insert and bolt from ACe hardware- i do all this with the top and back on. easy

Alain Lambert · Mar 2, 2015

Use an anchor bolt: 1/4-20 thread on one end and wood screw on the other.
Strong, simple, one is enough.
Just make sure the it is the correct length.
You can reach inside with a socket and flex joint.

Moore Bettah Ukuleles · Mar 3, 2015

If you are going the cross dowel bolt route it is to your advantage to buy them from a pale like Rockler. The hardware store variety of the female part that I have come across are sat and poorly machined. They can hang up the bolt when you least want it to (ei: final assembly.)

MichaelPfenning · Mar 3, 2015

Im new to this but if I was using hardware I would buy a tap an die and clean everything up before using it. I use the Spanish heel so Don't have any experience with using hardware to join the neck .

Moore Bettah Ukuleles · Mar 3, 2015

MichaelPfenning said:
Im new to this but if I was using hardware I would buy a tap an die and clean everything up before using it. I use the Spanish heel so Don't have any experience with using hardware to join the neck .

Why would you want to do that? I've used hundreds of well made cross dowel bolts with no problem.

Sven · Mar 3, 2015

Kevs-the-name said:
I take it that this method requires me to have some kind of ‘insert’ for the bolt to go in to?

no biscuit, no dowel?

which glue then?
thanks again

This is similar to what I use:

Kevs-the-name · Mar 3, 2015

Sven said:
This is similar to what I use:
View attachment 76811

AHHHHH! That explains your 'hole in the top'
I like that!

Two very good options. This one and the dual thread

Timbuck · Mar 3, 2015

Nuts and bolts are for banjo's not uke's

Kevs-the-name · Mar 3, 2015

Timbuck said:
Nuts and bolts are for banjo's not uke's

Ha ha... Oh please don't!
I've read some of the other posts : I'll get the popcorn!&#55357;&#56860;

Moore Bettah Ukuleles · Mar 3, 2015

Timbuck said:
Nuts and bolts are for banjo's not uke's

Haha! I've been building banjos all these years.

--Chuck, Moore Bettah Banjos.

Neck joining options

Kevs-the-name

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Sven

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Kevs-the-name

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Sven

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Kevs-the-name

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Beau Hannam Ukuleles

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Alain Lambert

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Moore Bettah Ukuleles

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MichaelPfenning

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Moore Bettah Ukuleles

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Sven

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Kevs-the-name

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Timbuck

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