In order to either rebuild or repair an electric guitar (electronically) you will need a variety of tools, none of which are expensive. For nearly all of the projects you will encounter, you should have the following: a jeweler’s precision tool kit, a small wire cutter, a soldering iron, some soldering wire, an assortment of small screws, approximately six wire connectors, a small set needle-nose pliers, electrical tape, scissors and a small set of wire strippers.
Regardless of the depth of your project, the jeweler’s precision tool kit may be the most essential and timesaving instrument that’s going to make most jobs easier. All kits must have a variety of both slotted and Phillips-head screwdrivers. Occasionally, it may be possible to use smaller kits that only contain two or three precision screwdrivers. It is, however, not advised. Whenever a screwdriver is used that is either too small or too large, there is a likelihood that slippage will occur and the result could be either mechanical or cosmetic.
As mentioned, you will need other small hand tools: a wire cutter, needle-nose pliers and wire strippers. These should be clean and free of anything that could come loose, such as hair or metal shavings. This is essential because foreign objects may ruin soldering and cause unevenness. Having to redo soldering is time consuming and could place undue strain on the hands.
A soldering tool should be one that you feel comfortable holding. Generally, the smaller ones are best because you will be working in areas that have little room for error. Cordless soldering tools are excellent for guitar repair or rebuilding. They range in size from small to very small. However, you should purchase wire that is suitable for the tool’s temperature range. Wire that is too thick can take a lot of time to melt, if it even melts at all.
Lastly, you will need an assortment of screws. These are going to be used cosmetically to attach the faceplate for the pickups. These can be purchased in different colors to either match original equipment or for individual taste.







