Bolt-on neck question

For my next uke build, I plan on doing a bolt on neck (which I plan on ordering from Mainland Ukes, they do a good job at a great price) Anyway, if I bolt on the neck, I am a little concerned the neck will turn on the body, if that makes sense. Any way to avoid that if it could happen? I am thinking a second hole for a tiny dowel, to stop any turning. Also, very newbie question, but it is better for the fretboard to not directly touch the top of the box correct? Any info greatly appreciated!!! Nash S.

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  • I just completed my first cigar box uke (my first build of any kind actually.)  I used a bolt on neck from Mainland.  It tried to turn with the bolt a little at first but it wasn't too hard to hold it in place until I got the bolt tight enough to keep it still.  I think on my next build I'll probably put the neck and box together temporarily first thing (before I put the fretboard on the neck.)  I'll make sure the neck is turned right and then run a small screw from inside the box into the neck.  Then take it back apart and proceed with the build.

  • I bond my fretboards directly to the top. I use that bond to prevent the neck from twisting. Just a 1/4-20 bolt and glue between the neck and box.
    • I did that for my first build and I agree, that neck isn't going anywhere! But for this build I think I'm gonna stick with just a bolt though.

  • A locating pin wouldn't hurt, but if your fretboard is going to overhang the box, there's no need to worry about the neck turning.  I've used a Mainland neck with jusy one bolt and it works fine.  The only issue I've had is bowing of the box.  Be sure to reinforce the soundboard with bracing. 305894800?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024

     

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    • Nice looking Uke! what kind/how much bracing did you use?

  • A dowel would work or you could use 2 dowel screws (lag on one side, bolt threads on the other). If you go with a dowel I wouldn't use a "tiny" one, I'd go 1/2".

    • I meant a dowel In addition to the bolt, just big enough to stop the turning. Thanks for your answer, I will look into dowel screws as a possibility
    • I guess I assumed too much in my reply, what I meant was you could use a 1/2" dowel in addition to whatever fastening method you've chosen or you could use 2 dowel screws.

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