Light Guage String Set Recommendation

[ram]

Hi Aaron, my 4001 is also a '74 and, like I said below, I have had the xl170s on it for decades. no issues with them . You probably do want to steer clear of the heavier tension strings (if possible) but really most modern makers would have something that should work. The setting of the trusses is the only real issue with the older necks. you have to pre-bend the neck while tightening the adjustment nuts. Joe's Bass notes web site has an excellent description on how to so this.

[aaronosaurus]

Thanks for the clarification Tom. I got the ol' girl in parts, needs a fret job, but the neck looks straight. (Having the PUPs rewound, etc.)
I would hate to finish my rebuild only to have the neck splinter across the room on my first tuning...... I think that might ruin my mood for the day.

[ram]

Aaron, I think it would be more like a cracking sound, as the fretboard separates from the neck... Like I said, my bass turned 40 this summer and I have been adjusting the trusses for more than 25 of those years and XL170s on it for probably as long or longer. Just read Joey's website and take your time. The only issue I have is a slight lift (not even a credit card thickness) on the tail piece. I think I may have caused that by torquing the tail piece screws. There is a little gap under them and I may have started the lift a little by screwing them down way more than necessary. Anyhow it has never gotten any worse.