Building the ‘Stang - Part 1

This is the first post in a series on building a Fender Mustang. Right now the project is getting to point were I can assemble. I’m just waiting for the paint.

Components
All of the parts are purchased of ebay with the exception of the paint and some hardware. Mustang parts are harder to find then more common guitar models, but fortunately Fender parts can be interchangeable between different models.Neck: $215
The neck is 1966, w/ Rosewood.
Fortunately this neck sold for a fairly cheap price compared to other vintage necks.
Someone altered the logo so that MU are missing from MUSTANG.

Pickups: $25
The pickups are from 1960’s MIJ Fender Stratocaster
Hopefully, these pickups will sound similar to the original 1960’s era mustangs.
Mustang and Strat pickups are similar with the exception of the different pole piece lengths on the Strat and the same size for all of the Mustang with a cover. Original Mustang tuner can be quite pricey.

Pickgaurd: $17
You can get pickgaurd from several different venders. This one is an Allparts Mint colored model. Also from ebay.

Body: $32
The body was from one of the early 1990’s reissues. Some had already stripped the paint and routed the bridge pickup cavity for a humbucker. Fortunately the pickgaurd will this mod up.

Tremelo and Control: $37
The trem. Arm and the control plate are all from a Jag-Stang that was made in early 1990’s

Tuners: $60
I got the Planet Waves locking auto-trim tuners for Christmas (thanks, Mom).
Look for a full review on how these work and installation considerations in a later

Paint: $62
This is going to Daphne Blue w/ Olympic White competition strips from Guitar Reranch
Reranch which specialized in guitar paint. They have are definitely worth checking out if you are looking for a project guitar, or refinishing what you have.

Total for parts: $372

Here are a few pics of the body with my Strat that can be used for comparison