Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Is the mod for the Grovers an easy fix to make them reliable in a 21st century live context?

jps wrote:Makes for an exciting time!

I don't think that's the kind of vintage experience I like!

I'm starting to see why so many were changed if that's what can happen. I don't gig with a spare bass with me, so things like that could spell an early bath.....

Oh dear! So you effectively could be mid - song at a gig, and all of a sudden you're heading for the ditch!

So we have some that have lasted the test of time!
When they do break, do they go slack first...or do they just explode without warning?

I've been checking out another early 70's 4001. Looks very clean overall, has had little use in it's 40+ years. All is original and very nice looking, even the wavy Grovers! This is an aspect of Rics which I have read a little about, but have never owned. I do think they look good, but TBH I'm a lit...

Thanks Mark.

Guessing that would lower the value somewhat?

FabGearHead wrote:It looks right to me. The blue plush was typically a Rick thing. It looks like period Cheney hardware and the handle appears correct for that time period.

Jim

Thanks Jim.

Do you know if we can pinpoint more of an exact era?

Do you think that's it a genuine case? I've only got verbal confirmation that it is....from what I've Google'd, it looks real 70s - early 80s...can't see any issue.

Here's a photo of the inside - complete with 4001 inside!

Great stuff guys. There are supporting panels for the neck, not for the body contours, though. Interior is blue. Only have it on word of mouth that it's early 80s. Guy used to run a music shop, and it's just old stock he forgot about as the shop is long gone. Will try to get a shot up on the inside ...

I've got the chance to snare a NOS Ric hardcase - I've been advised that it's from the early 80's - can anyone confirm this? It's essentially as new and unused. I'm looking to pick this up - but TBH, as my bass is a 70's model, I'd be looking to sell rather than keep. I have another potential 4001 p...

It's quite interesting - don't know why anyone would swap one out, unless it was broken, or purely cosmetic? It's looks like it's been on there for a good few years anyway, so I guess the answer is hidden in the basses' history! Unless the factory were using up some bits from the parts bin..... :lol:

Everyday's a school-day!

I believe that the old (plexi-glass) style Truss Rod Covers were phased out mid-75? I've just seen a late 70's 4001 with one fitted, think it's a '78. Were they completely out of the equation by then, or did they slip out onto many other models post-75? I'm guessing it's a retro-fit - but I thought ...

That's excellent info - many thanks chaps.