I just got a new Epiphone Thunderbird 60’s Pro, but…There’s neck dive. How do I fix it? If you can, Pictures would be appreciated on new strap button placements if possible.
2 Likes
depending on how bad it is, lightweight tuning machines like Hipshot Ultralites can help
3 Likes
Welcome to the reverse Thunderbird. Diving is in its DNA. A 3" wide or more strap helps. Another thing that can help a little is to have the strap from the bottom button come over the body of the bass and not behind it. That’s really helpful for basses that tend to lean forward due to the top strap button being at the base of the neck. My Gibson SG has a tendency to do that. I’m not sure that I’d want to replace the stock tuning machines on a 850 € bass unless all other things fail. A wide, comfortable strap can be your best friend.
4 Likes
If you can find ones with screwholes that match I wouldn’t even think twice about it on an 8500 euro bass - just keep the old ones in a baggie and offer them with the bass if you decide to sell. Unless the stock ones are Gotoh or Hipshot already, the aftermarket ones will be an upgrade.
2 Likes
Or the in-house-made ones like those on my Valiant Mini Bass. They make the pickups and the duralumin bridge and knobs, too. 
I agree that if the screw holes align perfectly and the diameter of the post hole matches, replacing the stock tuning machines isn’t an issue. Keeping the stock tuners is worth doing, unlike the bloody-awful Gibson 3-point floating bridge that was on my SG. It went straight in the trash after I replaced it with a Hipshot Supertone. The 2007 Gibson SG Supreme with the Natural Maple top that is on its way to me was already upgraded with a Babicz bridge, so I don’t have to bother replacing the original oil rig bridge.
2 Likes
Another option, that has worked for some, is to use a guitar strap that ties to the headstock.
1 Like
That’s awesome, yeah if you have good custom ones that’s obviously another thing 
2 Likes