Couch Straps and Thinskin Teles

[chipbutty24]

I have a Couch strap and it's honestly the best strap I've ever owned. Problem is it's all vinyl. It melted the finish on an MJT body I had.

Does anyone have experience with a Couch strap on a Thinskin Fender guitar?

Not looking for best guesses here, just info from those of you who've had actual experience.

Thanks in advance.

[xtrajerry]

I don't have any first hand experience because I wouldn't take a chance on damaging the nitro finish of my guitars by using a synthetic strap. Not trying to be a ***** but gotta ask.. If the strap didn't get along with the lacquer on your MJT why would you expect it to be ok with your fender?
I have an addendum (part number 002-7620-000) to the fender owners manual re: lacquer finishes and it specifically says to avoid using straps made of vinyl, plastic, synthetic or rubber.

[chipbutty24]

Because the finish on MJTs and Fenders are likely different even though they're both called "nitro". Couch claims they've never had an issue with their straps and any particular guitar finish but there's always that disclaimer.

Just hoping someone had experience. I really like their straps. If anyone knows of a company that makes similar styles and quality as Coach but in leather, I'm all ears..uh..eyes.

[Racer5]

Originally Posted by chipbutty24

I have a Couch strap and it's honestly the best strap I've ever owned.

Slightly off topic, but what makes it so great? I've owned a few straps, haven't really been amazed by any of them. Couch straps definitely look good but that can't be enough?

[Stubee]

Chip I sure don't mean to 2nd guess or whatever & don't have a Couch strap + a Thinskin but thinking that is maybe a rare combo here? I have owned a ton of nitro-finished guitars since 1971 or so & trying to save you damage so...

Likely not a huge issue when playing if it's not real hot & strap not in contact with finish, but I would never keep a vinyl strap in the case or laying on a nitro guitar of any build/spec/brand for any period of time more than, well, minutes.

[strat_tone]

I don't think a thin skin will react differently than a regular fender nitro. I have a thin skin. I love the fender made in USA thin leather strap that comes with it.

[chipbutty24]

Originally Posted by Stubee

Chip I sure don't mean to 2nd guess or whatever & don't have a Couch strap + a Thinskin but thinking that is maybe a rare combo here? I have owned a ton of nitro-finished guitars since 1971 or so & trying to save you damage so...

Likely not a huge issue when playing if it's not real hot & strap not in contact with finish, but I would never keep a vinyl strap in the case or laying on a nitro guitar of any build/spec/brand for any period of time more than, well, minutes.

Absolutely. No question that the damage to the MJT was due to leaving the strap on the guitar.

[Torz Johnson]

Originally Posted by chipbutty24

If anyone knows of a company that makes similar styles and quality as Coach but in leather, I'm all ears..uh..eyes.

Be careful with leather too - depending on how it's tanned, it can damage nitro as well. I just got into the habit of never leaving any kind of strap on my nitro guitars for any extended period.