Skip to main content
Blues Harmonica logo

User Account

Username:*
Password:*
Forgot Your Password?

Visitor Menu

  • Sign Up
  • Sample Lesson #1
  • Sample Lesson #2
  • Student Recordings
  • Forums
Forums :: Ask Harp Mic Expert Greg Heumann

Tapping a shell for a switchcraft adapter

3 replies [Last post]
Sun, 02/20/2011 - 21:48
Nick Klaich
Nick Klaich's picture
Offline
Joined: 11/24/2010

HI Fritz,
I watched your mic videos and heard you talk about tapping a shell for a switchcraft connector. I found the "hand held" device you mentioned, but I don't know which "tap" will provide the correct match for the 5/8 screw.
Any suggestions?
Thank you,
Nick

Top
Thu, 02/24/2011 - 12:18
#1
Mic Expert Frit...
Mic Expert Fritz Hasenpusch's picture
Offline
Joined: 01/16/2010
TAP TAP TAP...

Hello Nick,
For installing the SWITCHCRAFT 2501MP 5/8" thread-on connector you'll want to remember that the CONNECTOR end is 5/8" and that the MOUNTING end you'll be dealing with is 3/8"! DON'T punch a 5/8" hole by mistake! As the cable channels cast into the rear cases of SHURE hard-wired mics is right around 1/4" (they vary a bit) you'll want to utilize a drill bit that leaves as much of the supporting Zinc alloy around the hole as possible. I like to use a 21/64", Q, or 11/32" drill bit. THE KEY INGREDIENT is the 3/8" X 32 TAP you'll need for threading this hole for the SWITCHCRAFT 2501 connector. Most do-it-yourself hardware chains are unlikely to stock such a fine thread so you may have to let your fingers do the walking...

Top
Sun, 02/27/2011 - 15:12
#2
marcos
marcos's picture
Offline
Teacher 9Level 10
Joined: 01/11/2010
Drilling and tapping

Hi, Fritz.

In the video, you mention drilling the hole for a 250 1MP with a hand device rather than using a power drill. Is there a specific device that you are referring to? The thought of trying to drill a straight hole while trying to stabilize something the shape of a JT-30 is daunting to me.

I especially have doubts about my ability to get a screw-on connector mounted in my 1940 707A shell disasterlessly. (I know, the most prudent action would be to send it to you...I'm thinking seriously about it).

I found the tap at Amazon.com for about $13.00
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002KJU06S

Top
Wed, 03/30/2011 - 16:42
#3
Mic Expert Frit...
Mic Expert Fritz Hasenpusch's picture
Offline
Joined: 01/16/2010
DRILLING AND TAPPING...

Hello again, Marcos,
Looks like my answer didn't upload. My bad... The hand-held devices I'm referring to are associated with threading taps: One looks like a propeller (holding the tap at its center; The other looks like a Jacobs drill chuck on a stick with a "T" handle at the back end. You'll find that in soft metals like microphone alloy that an 'advance & reverse' method works with both the drill bits and threading taps. The alloy tends to bind on the tool surface and reversing your direction on a regular basis will actually help your forward progress.
-AND HEY! DON'T -I SAID DON'T practice on your 707!!!

Top

Sign me up!

The low monthly subscription of $16.95 gives you full access! We accept major credit cards and PayPal.

Subscribe

Free Sample Lessons

After watching the BluesHarmonica.com overview video, try one of the lessons below to experience a lesson at BluesHarmonica.com.

  • Tongue Blocking Study 2 – This study is for the newer player or the player new to tongue blocking
  • Bending Study 5 – This is for the advanced player looking to improve their bending skills

Contributors

  • Aki Kumar
  • Joe Tartaglia
  • Gary Smith
  • Mark Hummel
  • Joe Filisko

Site Links

  • About David Barrett
  • Accredited Instructors
  • Links
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us
Hohner
© 2009 - 2022 David Barrett and the Harmonica Masterclass Co. for Bluesharmonica.com