Modifying 6-string into 12-string?

[ric340JG]

I know it's a bad idea, but I was just wondering, theoretically, would it be possible to turn a 330/6 into a 330/12 . . . You would have to adapt the nut and the headstock . . . everything else is the same. Every single specification (except a 1/2" difference in overall length, due to a slightly longer headstock) is exactly the same.

[Clint]

Sure it's possible, especially if you use an older guitar with the larger headstock. But unless you could do all of the woodworking and refinishing involved yourself, it would probably be cheaper and easier to find a used 12 string. Then you'd have two Ricks and that can't be bad.

[jimk]

Well now...I don't know about you, but I wouldn't attempt it. I've tried structural modifications on other things, not guitars, and always have been less than satisfied with the end result.

JimK

[deaconblues]

It's been done...I saw a 325v63 that was made into a 325/12. However, I don't think it would be worth the effort on a standard model.

[JakeK]

You are probably better off getting a new neck, I suppose. Paul W. can deinitely comment here!

[jingle_jangle]

It can be done...I have two that I'm doing right now, that will remain under wraps for the time being. Both are for customers. Neither will have a new neck, although if cost was immaterial, a new neck is how I would go about it. Its not 100% necessary, though, as long as you understand that there's going to be a graft on the neck (I move it down a bit and cut it on an angle to retain the fretboard, yet get it away from the truss rod pocket--the neck's weakest part). It's an obvious joint under anything but a solid finish like BB, JG, TURQ, Ruby, etc.

A 12-string headstock and neck have about 300+ pounds of force put upon then, but a well-glued and crafted joint will pose no problems.

Economically, you're looking at several hundred dollars labor plus parts.

[deaconblues]

Why the neck graft, Paul? Can't the sides of the headstock just be cut off?

[jingle_jangle]

Headstock is not long enough, in general, by about 1/2".

There are lots of oddball ways of doing this sort of thing. I've seen an inch or so added to the headstock, and then six new holes drilled in it for a quick, cheap hack. But to maintain the Rick look and function, it's a good idea to fashion a new headstock to pattern. It's an even better idea to build a new neck.