How to Repair and Upgrade Your Guitar Amp: A DIY Guide

How to Repair and Upgrade Your Guitar Amp: A DIY Guide

If you’ve been gigging, rehearsing, or hauling your guitar amp around for years, chances are it’s starting to show some wear and tear. Scuffed corners, ripped Tolex, loose handles, and worn-out rubber feet are all common problems musicians run into. The good news? You don’t need to toss your amp or pay for an expensive repair shop — most cosmetic and hardware issues can be fixed at home with a few simple tools and the right replacement parts.

At Reliable Hardware, we’ve been supplying musicians and builders since 1992 with all the essentials to keep amps looking and performing like new. Here’s a guide to the most common amp repairs you can tackle yourself.

1. Replacing Amp Corners

Amp corners take a beating. From loading into the van to sliding across rehearsal studio floors, they’re usually the first thing to dent or wear out. Replacing them is easy:

  • Remove the old screws and damaged corner protectors.
  • Line up your new amp corners (available in powder coat black and zinc finishes).
  • Secure them with matching screws or rivets.

Not only does this give your amp a clean look, but it also protects the cabinet from further damage.

Browse Amp Corners

2. Fixing or Upgrading Rubber Feet

Wobbly amp? Missing or cracked feet? That’s not just annoying — it can lead to vibration issues and cabinet wear.

  • Unscrew the old feet.
  • Replace them with durable rubber feet in the right size.
  • For heavier amps, go with reinforced rubber feet designed to handle more weight.

Shop Rubber Feet

3. Repairing or Re-Covering with Tolex

Tolex isn’t just about looks — it protects your amp cabinet wood. Over time, it can peel, bubble, or tear. You can patch small areas or go for a full re-cover:

  • Strip the old covering (a heat gun helps loosen glue).
  • Cut and glue new Tolex sheets to size. Use our Spray Adhesive for easy install.
  • Smooth out bubbles and trim excess around edges.

Choose from classic black, vintage patterns, or even bold colors to customize your rig.

Check out Tolex Covering

And check out our Tolex Covering DIY Videos!

4. Replacing Amp Handles

A broken handle is more than inconvenient — it makes moving your amp a nightmare. Whether you prefer a strap handle, metal handle, or recessed handle, swapping in a new one is simple:

  • Remove screws from the damaged handle.
  • Measure the spacing to ensure a proper fit.
  • Install the new handle with matching hardware.

Explore Amp Handles and Recessed Handles

Final Thoughts

Repairing your guitar amp isn’t just about making it look new again — it’s about protecting your investment and keeping it gig-ready. With the right hardware and parts, you can extend the life of your amp for years. And even give it some custom flair by swapping zinc corners with powder coat black corners.

At Reliable Hardware, we carry everything you need for amp repairs and custom builds: corners, rubber feet, Tolex, handles, grills, latches, rivets, and more. Whether you’re a touring musician, a DIY builder, or just fixing up your old favorite, we’ve got you covered.

Shop all Amp Hardware today and get your amp stage-ready again.

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