12 string Guitar to Mandocello conversion

[mandotopia]

I have a 70's nagoya 12 string. the back sepatated and 5 of the tuners are missing. I was hoping to turn this to a Mandocello w/ 1 low C string until I find a replacement tuner. Can I use the existing bridge saddle using 8 of the 12 holes and get a new nut w/ 8 slots? What are some issues I should look out for?

[Bernie Daniel]

I have a 70's nagoya 12 string. the back sepatated and 5 of the tuners are missing. I was hoping to turn this to a Mandocello w/ 1 low C string until I find a replacement tuner. Can I use the existing bridge saddle using 8 of the 12 holes and get a new nut w/ 8 slots? What are some issues I should look out for?

I think you'll need a new bridge saddle too. BTW what is the saddle made of bone or wood?

Guess you have individual tuners on the guitar -- what kind are they Grovers? There really should not be big issues to overcome.
The 12 string guitar neck is clearly strong enough -- figure out how to space out the tuners so it looks neat.

Likewise which sting pegs/peg holes you will use and you are on your way! Good luck.

[Paul Hostetter]

12-string necks are really rather wide for a mandocello neck.

[Dobe]

Yep, gonna have to thin that neck, take off the back & get rid of some bracing. I converted a 60's Gibson 12 some time ago (Double X braced) Ream out your bridge pin holes , maybe whack off some of that headstock (about 4-holes worth) A worthy project with the Gibson, sounded great. Good luck !!

[delsbrother]

You could make a giant trichordia!