I'm familiar with Techware, but I can't figure out what you mean. Pics please?

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Thanks for the response. I'm just trying to figure out if it was ever normal for gretsch to drill large holes (about 1&1/2")in the shell to accomodate the techware tom mounts

Exactly what PART of the Techware, the bass drum mount has a 1 inch tube, so of course it's got to have a 1 1/2 inch hole in the shell to accept it.

That's why if I saw a pic, I could help you I'm sure.

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I own Gretsch and have restored several Gretsch kits. The actual size from the factory for the hole through the bass is slightly smaller than 1 1/2". So the size is OK. The late 70's drums did have the techware. A good way to tell is to look at the hole on the inside of the drum. When the hole is drilled, sometimes a little "chipping" occurs fom the bit. If it was done at the factory, they would have sprayed the shell with the silver liner after the hole was drilled. If the paint is missing where the chips ocurred, it was most likely drilled by someone else. Hope this helps!FYI

Great tip EB!! That's one I'll remember for the future!!

Thanks!!

(Why didn't I think of that?) DOH

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Glad to help vipercussionist...It isn't a 100% fool proof way...I have actually seen some where the person tried to "dress up" the inside with some silver paint. It is a little difficult if the other person knows what they are doing, but there is a way to tell if it is actually Gretsch paint or not. Gretsch's consistancy and sparkle are almost impossible to duplicate. :2Cents:

Hey there, ttwwaallsshh !

What you have there is the factory hole for installation of Gretsch's catalog no. 4937 dual purpose tom tom holder -- it was that ball-and-socket type they used from about '75 to about 1980 or so. The nylon ball was mounted in a plate right on the toms, which accepted the hex arm of the bass drum riser.

I tried to attach a photo of a 1977 catalog page, but, apparently, that function isn't working for me on this site right now...

Ahh yes...I forgot about that mount! Wasn't that hole bigger than 1 1/2 though???

Good question, extremembeat...

I dunno. Seen 'em lots of times, but never measured one. At a guess, I'd say inch 'n' a half might be about right, though.