R9 Switch Medallion Stuck

[GreenBurst]

I have a 60th R9 and the switch medallion is stuck to the surface preventing removal.

Has anyone had this problem and how did you resolve it?

I had the same problem with the control cavity cover but was able to use a suction cup to remove it. Some of the cavity lip finish came off with it. I cleaned it up and now the cover can be removed when needed.

I can't fit any type of pry tool into the edge of the cavity or any of the holes without risking finish/wood/medallion damage.

Looking for non invasive solutions on the switch medallion. Suction cup won't work as the medallion surface has features preventing it from adhering.

 

[Dave P]

A hunk of duct tape? Maybe hit the plate with a hair dryer to warm it a bit and lightly tap the plate a bit with a screwdriver handle might help to break any bond.

 

[jb_abides]

A small angled/curved/hooked tool like dental scraper/pick, through the hole then wedge between the medallion bottom and wood, then pry/lift.

$6 on Amazon or at a local pharmacy.

 

[charliechitlins]

Leave it on?

 

[garywright]

as helpful as don’t look at it

 

[charliechitlins]

as helpful as don’t look at it

How about, leave it on, don't look at it, and practice more?

 

[garywright]

( although I’d probably want it off as well )

 

[GreenBurst]

Leave it on?

I've had the medallion cover on since I got the guitar 5 years ago.

I wanted to change it to the plastic version that came in the case to avoid damage and maybe the loss of the diamond.

When using a strap the switch area is at the waist so it does contact the belt/buckle.

Better to leave this in the case and go with the plastic version. No one really sees it anyway, including me. Other than when I'm putting it in or taking it out of the case.

My older Custom has a medallion and it has seen some wear over the years.

Thanks to all who shared suggestions for removing it.

 

[charliechitlins]

I thought you meant the one on the fave of the guitar, commonly called "poker chip".
I totally get wanting to take the back one off.
Since it's metal, a hair dryer seems a perfect option...maybe a little wire hook to go in a screw hole and grab it.
Or a chopstick in the hole and lever it.

 

[GreenBurst]

I thought you meant the one on the fave of the guitar, commonly called "poker chip".
I totally get wanting to take the back one off.
Since it's metal, a hair dryer seems a perfect option...maybe a little wire hook to go in a screw hole and grab it.
Or a chopstick in the hole and lever it.

aka the "swtch ring".

I've tried some heat and other lever type options. There is not much room as the medallion screw hole is small and around the medallion circular edge it would just result in wood damage.

I will look for a sturdier tool (stainless steel?) With a hook end that can fit into the medallion hole.

Alternatively, I could make a tool to initiate a twist by using two screws through a length of wood. The screw spacing would fit two of the medallion mounting holes. Screws would only protrude equivalent to the thickness of the medallion (actually, slightly less). The lever could then be used to "twist" the cover loose with a quick short circular movement. Similar to removing wrist watch back covers. Still a bit risky for medallion surface damage. Hence looking for a pry tool leverage solution first.

 

[Tollywood]

How about a strong magnet?

 

[GreenBurst]

How about a strong magnet?

The medallions are die-cast, so they'll be a non-ferrous material (non magnetic).

 

[Tollywood]

The medallions are die-cast, so they'll be a non-ferrous material (non magnetic).

Rats.

 

[renderit]

A small angled/curved/hooked tool like dental scraper/pick, through the hole then wedge between the medallion bottom and wood, then pry/lift.

$6 on Amazon or at a local pharmacy.

I do THIS (stick it through the HOLE for a screw IF it scratches it will be covered up).

 

[Northcoastwoods]

Work a small ziptie around the edge. Use factory end or cut a new edge on the ziptie and sand into a wedge. It'll be stiff enough. Work it slow and steady.

 

[Wizard1183]

A razor blade is thin enough to pry it

 

[El Gringo]

I've had the medallion cover on since I got the guitar 5 years ago.

I wanted to change it to the plastic version that came in the case to avoid damage and maybe the loss of the diamond.

When using a strap the switch area is at the waist so it does contact the belt/buckle.

Better to leave this in the case and go with the plastic version. No one really sees it anyway, including me. Other than when I'm putting it in or taking it out of the case.

My older Custom has a medallion and it has seen some wear over the years.

Thanks to all who shared suggestions for removing it.

Is it not an industrial diamond ? Probably not a high value other than sentimental ? Once way back I looked at mine and imagined sticking a real diamond in it for sh$%^and giggles .

 

[seafood]

I'm in Southern California.. And there's a local Doctor...A Brain Surgeon.. That also does Les Paul plate removals...It's very expensive and he's booked months in advance ... But I've heard wonderful things about the results.....Just something to think about .

 

[Burst_in2_flames]

Take off your switch ring and nut, carefully slide a thin screwdriver or other long, slender object down alongside the switch and push it out from the top.

 

[AA00475Bassman]

I have one Les Paul Historic I haven't explored = not one screw don't flame me I haven't even played it the new me says leave it be - you will be pissed when the finish lifts with the cover -------- sell it .