Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Ted, when exactly (I realize what I'm asking here! ) did RIC end the 1/2" spacing for the rout? I have a 4001 from this era and no serial number on the plate. It has a plexi TRC, but 1" spacing without the rout for 1/2" spacing. The rods appear to be wide. I am trying to get a close approximation of it's birthday. Here is a pic, but do not fear, it now sports a '79 Rick tailpiece.
Oh, and what Hi Beams do you use?

The last appearance of the 1/2" spacing on a 4001 was in 1975. The bodies were routed to accept both types of pickguards. In '76 they were made to accept 1" only.

I use two different Hi Beam sets. I like the 40-100 and the harder to find 45-100.

Okay, looks like an early '76 it is then - I've been told plexi TRCs were still around in early '76.

Thanks for the info, Ted. I'll be on the lookout for an LMR-45 set.

My now-gone February '76 4001 had a "dual-spacing" neck pickup route on it...

Cool Sergio. I have never seen one like that but it does not surprise me that they exist. There are no absolutes with transtions. The thing I find the most confusing is the 4001 and 4003 transition. There are 4001s with SNs as late as '86 but it is said that the two models did not overlap in production. The existance of stragglers is apparently due to reworks and excess inventory. There were a LOT of 4001s made between '77 and '80. Perhaps the wood parts were made in anticipation of orders and were inventoried.

John, I think your new tailpiece is a '78

thisismusicinc wrote:John, I think your new tailpiece is a '78

Jon, senior moment! I had to go and look at our communications and I stand corrected!

Did you ever get the wiring done to your 4001?

No, but hopefully I'll find the time soon. Really looking forward to get it fixed, but there's just too much else that needs my attention. But, yeah, soon