4001 - mute screws (sorry, pretty dull!)

clarky · Post by **clarky** » Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:31 am

Hey guys, I just bought a 1980 4001FG (looks great next to my restored 3000FG - like big and little brothers) and discovered that the two chromed height adjustment screws for the mute pad on the bridge are missing. I would like to replace them for aesthetic reasons (does anyone ever use the mute pad?).

Do these have a part number or official name so I can contact Rickenbacker to get replacements? Or do you know of anyone that sells them, preferably in the UK (unlikely I know) or failing that the US? All help gratefully received, cheers Clarky

jdogric12 · Post by **jdogric12** » Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:33 am

I believe they are the same object as the vintage style strap buttons. Same part number, etc.

RIC #05901

lyle_from_minneapolis · Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:34 am

I do use the mute pad on occasion. However, when I un-mute, those mute screws rattle loosely.

rickaddict · Post by **rickaddict** » Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:37 am

These are still avaiable from Rickenbacker. See the RIC website. Go to Boutique, then misc.

Here's a link:

http://www.rickenbacker.com/cart.asp?viewitem=05901&category=viewitem&buffer_category=Miscellaneous

rickaddict · Post by **rickaddict** » Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:38 am

And how's that for service!

incubus2432 · Post by **incubus2432** » Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:41 am

Mark, if the rattle or loosening is an issue just remove the bridge and slightly bend the mute up in the middle. This puts a little "side loading" type force that holds the threads a tighter. Of course a little more effort may be required to raise or lower the mute but it's a trade off that may be worth it.

lyle_from_minneapolis · Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:54 am

Thanks, Brian, I'll give that a shot.

doctorwho · Post by **doctorwho** » Tue Jun 19, 2007 2:41 pm

You also need to get the springs that go between the mute pad bar and the tailpiece, part # 06117:

http://www.rickenbacker.com/pdfs/btailpiece.pdf

and, to do it 'right', the washers, part # 06235, that go between the strap bolt and the tailpiece on top. Lack of springs will probably result in some rattle.

rictified · Post by **rictified** » Tue Jun 19, 2007 2:58 pm

None of mine rattle, and I also occasionally use them.

clarky · Post by **clarky** » Tue Jun 19, 2007 6:58 pm

I knew I'd get the answers here! Thanks guys

doctorwho · Post by **doctorwho** » Thu Jun 21, 2007 10:11 am

You're welcome, Mark!

captain_jetglo · Post by **captain_jetglo** » Fri Jun 22, 2007 12:49 am

There's another place you can look for spares:
http://www.the-music-connection.com/ric.htm

I've done business with Mike a couple times and everything was fine.
Hope you can find them