Just got a 4001, (first Rick ever) and I have a question

[Gordak]

I finally got my dream bass, any 4000 series would have done, but I ended up trading a gibson es335 for this 1983 4001, (thats what I was told it is)


First off, I really love this guitar, and how it has yellowed heavily, that and the black plastic really works to my liking.
One thing has really puzzled me, I have never seen another 4000 series that has a neck like this, as you see in the picture, Its not flush where the neck meets the body, I googled and searched and could not find another rick like this. It would be really cool if this were a rare variation, but I have no clue if thats the case. MY biggest fear is that something is very wrong here.



Anyone familair with this? or know what this is?

Thanks!!

-Sam

[brycycle]

welcome to the forum, Sam!

that's called a set-neck and i believe it was standard for the 4000 model from the mid(?) 70's on.

in other words, nothing wrong there.

[rickboy88]

Looks like you have a 4001S model. They had mono (just one jack), dot inlay, contoured bodies (no trim), and a set neck. I have one as well from 1982 (see avatar), as well as a 1982 4003S. The initial 4003S models had a "split" pick guard. Your model has a one piece, so probably a 4001S.

It would be something to hang on to. I got mine originally for the McCartney "mojo" back in 1984.

[rickenbrother]

Welcome to the forum Sam. Like others have said, you have a 4001S. They are great basses. I have one also. I love it!

Check out more info and pictures here:
Model of the Week three: 4001S and RM1999

[bassduke49]

Yes, Sam, you have a White 4001S. The set neck was used on the 4000 and the 4001S from about 1972 to the early '80s when remaining stock of these basses cleared the inventory. Supposedly, no "new build" 4000, 4001, or 4001S were made after 1980. The set neck models of this era have a shedua (type of wood) strip down the middle of the neck (you might be able to see evidence of it as light seams in the paint). There's a 4001S carcass on eBay right now that shows it well, and has a view of the front with the pickguard off and you can see the strip on the heel of the set neck inside the body:

http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-1981-RICKEN ... 7C294%3A50

The 4001 (deluxe trim) have the shedua strip all the way through the length of the instrument as it is a neck-through model.

You'll enjoy your Rick, and you'll enjoy hanging out here. There's a lot to learn. Welcome!

[weemac]

Welcome sam!
I think you got lucky with that one, somewhat more rare and to some... more valuable!
Eden.

[Gordak]

WOW thanks folks very excited!

I knew it plays really good so what was there to worry about.

Im so glad to finally have one.

-Sam

[DanJ]

Nice! Congratulations on an excellent find. I recently acquired a Burgundy 4000 but what I have really been after is the 4001S. These are not easy to come by, so I must ask - where the heck did you find this baby?

[wints]

Welcome Sam.

Nice 4000/1 dot inlay bass there. Not many with the black TRC either. Congrats!

[brycycle]

oops, yes - 4001s...didn't note the front shot.

[woodyng]

welcome and congrats! your 4001s is the same color combination as my 74 4000,(the one in the background avatar pic). it's one of my favorite rick basses that i've owned over the (many) years. hard to tell from your picture,is your trc a raised-letter or plexi type? the black background plexi's are pretty rare. you are off to a good start,my friend!

[s4001]

That's quite a score for your first Ric. You'll enjoy it!

[ram]

Welcome to the forum Sam - great looking bass! Congrats on the score!!

[Gordak]

Thanks again everyone, for the warm welcome and the oodles of information.
to answer Questions,

It is a raised lettering TRC

I found it on the guitar center website, and when I saw it was only 45 minutes away, rushed out to see it.
The picture they posted was pretty bad, so Im not suprised it didnt sell sooner.
-Sam