Kspeed- thanks for the help, I found the problem was a dud middle pickup. Just my luck!
Aidb- thanks again for the useful link. It have the body real close to where I want it, I feel I'm down to the fine details so those photos will really help.
Scotty- I appreciate the comment! Also, I gave your email to my friend Brian who is thinking about building a blackie clone so he may be contacting you soon about a 57 style nitro neck.