Rickenbacker 3001 replacement bridge

[sarlscharisma]

Just acquired a Ric 3000 but found that it has a Ric bridge on that is shorter than the original and so new holes drilled ;-(. Does anyone know where I can get a new bridge that will fit the original holes? I'm looking for either a Ric or Hipshot.

[jps]

Just acquired a Ric 3000 but found that it has a Ric bridge on that is shorter than the original and so new holes drilled ;-(. Does anyone know where I can get a new bridge that will fit the original holes? I'm looking for either a Ric or Hipshot.

What do you mean by a Rick bridge but is shorter? Photos?

[bassduke49]

The 3001 was fitted with a standard Rickenbacker cast tailpice/bridge found on the 4000/4001/4002/4003. That tail/bridge unit has changed over the years, but shorter? I think not. I would imagine a modern Rick replacement should fit the "original holes." Let's see photos of what you have.

[sarlscharisma]

I have put the pick where the previous bridge was - but I think you can see the outline anyway. It is not possible to move this bridge to that point as string damper prevents this.

[sarlscharisma]

I've taken the bridge off so you can see the extra holes added

[nov_1981]

I dont think your tailpiece is shorter, I think someone just moved it back for some reason.
You can see the original filled in screw holes, also the back edge of your tailpiece should not be aligned or even past the bottom of the body. I think if you rotate the mute pad 180 degrees and then put the tailpiece back in the original position you should be in good shape.
Here's a picture of my 3000 for example

[sarlscharisma]

Yep, you're right. I don't know why someone would move the tail piece like that. Beyond me? Unfortunately I'm going to have to fill they holes. The original holes have been made wider/longer using hex-type bolts. Unfortunately these things are hidden when you buys vintage. Quick question, were the 3000s varnished fretboards aka 4000s or did they come without. Mine's without

[nov_1981]

Its possible that this was an attempt to solve intonation issues.
Yup, the fretboards on 3000 basses were unfinished.

[sarlscharisma]

are they known to have intonation issues?

[nov_1981]

I've never heard that specifically about the 3000's.. I just checked mine and its almost right on at the 12th fret.
It does looks like your A string saddle is pretty far back. Does yours intonate?

[sarlscharisma]

Its possible that this was an attempt to solve intonation issues.
Yup, the fretboards on 3000 basses were unfinished.

Pretty sure the 3001 were finished in varnish. It's the first time I've owned a 3000 hence the questions

Waiting for the wood filler to dry - will update tomorrow

[sarlscharisma]

Well I put the bridge back to it's original position and found out the reason why it was fitted further back on the body is because the intonation goes right out. I have maxed the saddles as far back as they can go and just about have the intonation ok. Sounds like maybe a Ric design flaw

[aceonbass]

Both the former RIC employees have told me that bridges on RIC instruments were often not placed correctly back in the 70's.

[sarlscharisma]

Trouble is it sounds so good otherwise it would be back to its seller. Not something I would shout too loud on that other well known bass forum!

[sarlscharisma]

Does anybody know if the intonation screws came with springs on the 3000. Mine don't have them??