drilling for an endpin, in an Ovation

[Dave Richard]

I would like to install a p/u, and 1/2" endpin, in my circa 1979 Ovation Ballader.  Can I simply remove the strap pin, and carefully drill or ream the hole in the bowl?  Or is there a recommended method for these guitars?

[Mark A. Kane]

I don't recall an end block in those, though I could be wrong. I recall a triangular t-nut on the inside that the existing button screws into. Typically, those guitars have a 1/4" jack drilled through the back on the lower bout. The bowl is very thin. This is how I've done it in the past:

I leave the existing strap button in place.

Remove the old jack, or if there is none, locate a suitable spot for a new one. Drill a small pilot hole just large enough to accomodate the pointy end of a tapered reamer. Ream the hole to the desired size.

Since the bowl is so thin, I typically use a large fender washer or some such thing to lend support on the inside while I tighten from the outside.

I've installed Fishman-style preamps and such this way with no problems, as well as conventional jacks.

[Dave Richard]

Thanks, Mark, that answers my question, I'll proceed as you've described.