Self-destructing tailpiece anyone?

[scoobster28]

My chrome plated model started to have the finish flake off, and several years later I opened the case to find it broken. (Yuppers, it had sat in a case for a long time!) I have no idea when it happened but at the time I noticed the flaking I asked about it here and was told it wasn't a big deal. I have no idea if they are related or not. BUT... just check your tailpiece now and then for stress marks or cracks.

[brian_l]

Do the older style tailpieces have this issue also? If I were to replace my "R" tailpiece with one, would I still have to send in my old one?