Tonefiend Forum

I'm a professional blacksmith, so I'll be happy to answer any metalworking questions. I'm not real familiar with metal guitars, but steel is my business. Let me know what you want to do and I'll be happy to give any advice you need.

I'm not 100% sure, but I'd guess Trussarts are stamped, kinda like a steel-bodied National. There's a cool series of youtube videos touring the National factory that shows 'em being made, it's pretty awesome. My understanding was that Trussart leaves bodies outside to "weather" for a while, then knocks the rough off 'em, smooths them out and clear coats them, but again- just what I read. The one and only experience I've had playing a Trussart was a non-distressed Steelcaster that was shiny as a new penny, but oh momma- that thing was one of the finest guitars I've ever played. Good luck with your build and post pics!

Used to have an aluminum Tele(was a loaner) they made Strats too in the early 90s. Would have to say it was probably cast in a mold because it was hollow. Fantastic guitar all around if you ask me so was the Strat just like it that I played.Never touched a Trussart way out of my league.

Quote from smgear on August 14, 2012, 17:46
Offhand though, do you have any suggestions for a good sealant/rust proofer? I'd like to keep the steel pretty rustic looking if possible, but I'm not sure how to coat it apart from buffing/primer/paint. On the other hand, I think a blue steel wash might look good if my welding is pretty enough - which it probably won't be.

It depends on a bunch of factors. Rustoleum makes a couple clear finishes that might do what you want. When you say "rustic", a few things come to mind. You could do a hammered, faceted finish (either genuine or faux), you could do all sorts or interesting things with rust, black iron oxide (rust's heat created cousin), or enameling. It all depends on the look you're going for.

As far as sonic performance goes, and I'm just thinking of this now, your welds will have to be damn tight and smooth not to screw with vibrations (if you have to weld at all). I suggest TIG over anything else, maybe MIG if you have to. Stay away from arc and stick for this project, the welds are strong but the molecules aren't particularly dense and do not lend themselves to conveying vibration. Little stuff goes a long way with steel. I might have to start my own project now, because my brain is going in about a thousand different directions.