1981/1982 Hondo H732ML: Part 1 - Like a Les Paul Special; Needs Body Repairs, Nut, Wiring, and More

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I’m back at it with another upgrade. This time we’ll be working on a Hondo from the 1980s. It's Korean-made (NOT Japanese, as I mentioned) and is a lot like a Les Paul Special in most respects. In this episode, I make some repairs to the body and get prepped for wiring. This is a multi-episode project, and I hope you enjoy following along.
Some Related Parts:
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Vintage Forge knobs: amzn.to/4aQpCXw
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Fleor 3-way switch: amzn.to/3V46Rdn
Bone nut blanks: amzn.to/4c51QZ4
Locking tuners: amzn.to/4dMBOLA
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Tools:
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Who am I? I'm just a hobbyist, not a luthier. I've picked up a few skills along they way, and I continue to learn. If you're into DIY projects and musical instruments or gear, you may enjoy my channel. If you do, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment.

[@lunamatic9775]

The last time I came across a Hondo at a used shop nearby it needed a lot of work but I wasn't as confident in my repair skills back then. Looking forward to seeing how this turns out.

[@hacksguitarhobby]

I’ve been away all weekend and am starting back on it now! Drilling for the bridge has me worried, as usual.

[@georgelackey622]

Love those old Japanese guitars! I have a set neck Hondo II and an Electra Strat, both great axes.

[@hacksguitarhobby]

I love those Strats as well, mostly for the necks.

[@AndrewAHayes]

I played in my first band in the mid '80s and the bass player had one of these Hondo LP copies, I loved playing this guitar even though I had a Gibson LP Standard as my no1 guitar, the Hondo was much lighter than my LP and the fretboard seemed to be wider and considering my fingers are like sausages it was much more comfortable to play.

[@hacksguitarhobby]

I’m looking forward to seeing this one done and hoping it turns out well.

[@andreasvermeulen6090]

That's a cool looking thing! Those 70' japanese guitars always seem to have some variations, even if they're copies of exisiting models. My Westone telecaster copy has an upside down bridge pickup screw configuration, Slighte different body shape and some odd electronics...

[@hacksguitarhobby]

Well, definitely the bridge, unfortunately :)