Unofficial Taylor Guitar Forum - UTGF

Lessons, Recordings, How Tos, Repair, Accessories => Lessons, Recordings, How Tos, Repair, Accessories => Topic started by: fniensta on May 06, 2016, 04:26:59 PM

Title: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
Post by: fniensta on May 06, 2016, 04:26:59 PM

Hi,
Wondering how to convert a non-cutaway Taylor guitar (i.e. GS8) from lefty to right handed.

Bridge:Assume I need to replace the bridge for correct saddle orientation to ensure correct intonation

Top Bracing: Is the bracing of the top symmetrical or does it differ between righty and lefty guitar? If different, any downside of leaving it as is?

Inputs from the forum experts appreciated.

Thanks

Federico

Title: Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
Post by: Earl on May 06, 2016, 07:03:18 PM

The bracing is directional and is at least somewhat optimized for bass on one side and treble on the other.  In many ways the bracing is symmetrical, but I'm pretty sure they have a right-handed and a left-handed pattern, used during the build.  I don't think it would make a huge difference if you converted though.  Maybe ask Taylor and see if they have strong objections.  I would bet that their recommendation is to order a lefty guitar though.  As I recall the upcharge for a lefty is not radical, but you would have to order new and sight unseen.

Most of the time when converting direction, the saddle slot is filled with ebony and a new slot is re-routed for the other orientation.  You would not normally remove the bridge entirely, unless it is already partially loose.  That will depend on your luthier, and how much effort and money you want to expend.  In the end you might be better off seeking a lefty model, rather than messing with a righty.

Title: Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
Post by: fniensta on May 09, 2016, 09:52:32 PM

Have contacted Taylor Customer Service to get their advice

Thanks
Federico

Title: Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
Post by: Jersey tuning on May 10, 2016, 10:40:11 AM

Check out Elizabeth Cotton's technique........

Title: Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
Post by: fniensta on May 10, 2016, 10:47:56 AM

Wow. That is impressive.

Title: Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
Post by: madx2 on May 17, 2016, 11:24:25 AM

Wouldn't you also have to swap out the nut?  That would be another added expense.

Title: Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
Post by: fniensta on May 17, 2016, 10:28:43 PM

Yes. At a minimum, the nut, the bridge and the saddle would have to be replaced or modified.

I have gotten a couple of quotes from local shops and also from Taylor. About $300

Modifying the top bracing is optional and would cost extra.

Federico

Title: Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
Post by: autovon on June 23, 2016, 02:10:35 AM

That's good to know... I occasionally run into lefties who play what were right-handed guitars. Thanks!