Help! EMGs won't fit in pickguard / scratchplate

[MT01]

I've just tried replacing the stock pickups in my RG550LTD with EMG 81/85 and it has come to my attention that the 81 will not fit in the bridge pickup aperture on the scratchplate.

For now I've managed to fit the slightly smaller 85 in to the bridge, and I've squeezed the 81 into the neck position, however I'm not keen on the sound of the pickups in those positions.

How can I fit the 81 in the bridge?

Thanks

[Algiman]

Er, make the hole in the scratchplate bigger?

[MT01]

Originally Posted by Algiman

Er, make the hole in the scratchplate bigger?

That would be the logical conclusion, but how exactly?

[CosmicDebris]

Blowtorch would usually do the trick. If you don't have one of those use something to file it away at the needed place. I like fire so I usually use a torch.

[MT01]

Originally Posted by CosmicDebris

Blowtorch would usually do the trick. If you don't have one of those use something to file it away at the needed place. I like fire so I usually use a torch.

I have a World War II flame thrower. Would that work?

[Algiman]

I would think from your description that you only need to make the hole a tiny bit bigger, so no need to go and get new tools: I would use fine sand paper and a small block of wood and take off a small amount of plastic at a time. Find something round that is the right diameter for the corners. Secret is to go slow and to support the edge that you are working on while you sand.

[Algiman]

A flame thrower would be a lot more fun though!

[CosmicDebris]

Originally Posted by MT01

I have a World War II flame thrower. Would that work?

Yes but distance to object is critical.

[buddroyce]

Sandpaper works but I find a razor blade to scrape the sides equally as effective and usually quicker.

[Foulacy]

metal wood file and fine grit sand paper to smooth it off

[MT01]

Should the fact that it's a mirrored scratchplate make any difference?

[MT01]

Job done in 5 minutes with a flat and round file. It only needed very slight filing.

It seems I was overly paranoid about destroying the scratchplate!

Thanks for your advice.

[callen3615]

Originally Posted by CosmicDebris

Blowtorch would usually do the trick. If you don't have one of those use something to file it away at the needed place. I like fire so I usually use a torch.

FIRE!!!!