Do NOT do anything to the finish, such as refinishing it. No matter how bad it gets. That will be a definate mistake.

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explorationx

I completely understand what you are saying BigJay. If the"need" to mod is irresistible then why do it on a guitar that could be worth the price of several real nice new ones that you can mod your heart out on. Make it "your own" sound/style. It's true that everyone does not own guitars for investments but how many making that argument are in this mans position? I guess after all is said, it's his decision. No shortage of opinions here! I still agree with Ceri and CV!
Peace to all!

+1 -- I have an idea. Just keep the current pickguard and electronics completely untouched (with every bit of original solder wholly intact). Then buy a new loaded pickguard for the guitar, while the old one is set aside in a very safe place. If you do that, you will make the guitar current without losing one bit of value. And I agree with CVilleira, refret but do not refinish anything...

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Laughing out loud with fear and hope, I have a desperate plan ...

I've given my opinion already, but just so's this can be a slightly more informed discussion, a quick look around is finding prices in the region of $2500 - $3000 for a 1975 Strat.

For example, here's a page from the website of a seller I know personally. Reissues are at the top, then the real period instruments come further down in date order. Couple of natural finish '75 Strats going for £1895 / $2791 and £1995 / $2938, both in good condition with original cases:

http://www.vintageandrareguitars.com/we ... ic-Guitars

Prices will only go up over the decades - but it's going to be a long wait before this guitar buys anyone a new house, or even a new car...

Cheers - C

Personally I'd be terrified to modify that thing in any way. You did say you have lots of other guitars, aswell.

I would simply leave it alone and enjoy playing it as it is

I appreciate all the comments and advice - I totally understand where BigJay is coming from - However, this guitar is going to be played - ive decided thats why I bought it, so thats that!

Ceri, you are right in the ballpark my friend - I had it appraised when I first got it - High book on this model (white p/g and stuff) is $4200, the black stuff is worth a bit less- the guitar is 100% original, except the strings!! I believe they are from the '80s! I even have the orignal ashtray, hang tags, original case - mine has very little wear, and a few dings, and checked nicely

Im not really a collector, however, I will have a 60's model sometime in the future - I also have a black 1979, ive had pics of it on here before, I just think the old ones are cool - cant have enough strats

Here are all mine, along with my sons '05 model - I think ive posted this pic before too

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"Wait a minute, somethings wrong here!"

Nice family pic, asg.

Thanks for posting it.

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Member #26797
My other guitar is a Strat.

nice pic!

if you're a player, you're a player - mod it! it's all so subjective, but in the end, if you play it and you like the look, playability, sound - that's what matters... make yourself comfortable on it, so when you play for others, you won't be worrying about anything - you've got things exactly where you want them.

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My source for all my Fender Gear

"I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."
-Robert Frost