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Other than a rubber mallet, is there an easier way to install string ferrules? I always feel like I'm going to crack the finish on the guitar or the ferrule.

How about an arbor press or some sort of attachment in a drill press.

What kind of finish are you using? I heard a great tip, which worked well (I built a guitar with a nitro finish). Put them in as far as they will easily go, then insert a hot soldering iron, let it warm the ferrule, and gently press. The heat softens the finish and lets you insert the ferrule without damaging the finish.


Originally Posted by MikeRockerWhat kind of finish are you using? I heard a great tip, which worked well (I built a guitar with a nitro finish). Put them in as far as they will easily go, then insert a hot soldering iron, let it warm the ferrule, and gently press. The heat softens the finish and lets you insert the ferrule without damaging the finish.

1....I saw this in a Dan Erliwine video....


Originally Posted by MikeRockerWhat kind of finish are you using? I heard a great tip, which worked well (I built a guitar with a nitro finish). Put them in as far as they will easily go, then insert a hot soldering iron, let it warm the ferrule, and gently press. The heat softens the finish and lets you insert the ferrule without damaging the finish.

I tried that on my last guitar, but the finish was poly and it didn't work (a Warmoth body and finish). The guitar I'm about to work on is also a Warmoth body with a poly (or whatever they use that's not nitro) finish.

As for a drill press, nope, don't have one. Just a steady hand and a keen eye

There is no real way of softening poly without blushing the finish.
Score the finish with a knife,after drilling the hole do a thin bead of super glue around the edge of the finish.
Then put a drop of water into the wood and use the iron trick.The finish won't soften but it will give the wood a bit more spring.That should help coushin the finish while installing the ferrules.