Author Topic: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed  (Read 2461 times)

fniensta

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How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
« 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

Earl

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Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
« Reply #1 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.
Taylors:  424-LTD (all koa) and a 114ce that lives with friends in Alaska.  Low maintenance carbon fiber guitars are my "thing" these days, but I will always keep the koa 424.  Several ukulele and bass guitars too. 
*Gone but not forgotten:  a 2001 414ce, 410, 354-LTD twelve string, 314-N, 416-LTD baritone, T5 Classic, 615ce, 2006 GS-K, 1996 (first year) Baby

fniensta

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Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
« Reply #2 on: May 09, 2016, 09:52:32 PM »
Have contacted Taylor Customer Service to get their advice

Thanks
Federico

Jersey tuning

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Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
« Reply #3 on: May 10, 2016, 10:40:11 AM »
Check out Elizabeth Cotton's technique........
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fniensta

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Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
« Reply #4 on: May 10, 2016, 10:47:56 AM »
Wow. That is impressive.

madx2

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Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
« Reply #5 on: May 17, 2016, 11:24:25 AM »
Wouldn't you also have to swap out the nut?  That would be another added expense.

fniensta

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Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
« Reply #6 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


autovon

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Re: How to convert a lefty Taylor to right handed
« Reply #7 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!
- T5 Cocobolo (the most beautiful guitar I've ever seen... that I could afford:) **FOR SALE**
- BTO GS with cedar top, IRW b/s, and bloodwood trimmings (the most beautiful sounding guitar I've ever played)