Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Nice work Ted. I am glad to see the steps involved, especially using a PVC blanket to heat the fingerboard. That is valuable information as I am about to install an ebony fretboard on my white 4001. What type of fret wire would you suggest?

Also, looking at the pics it appears the truss rods are still in after the fretboard was removed. Is this correct?

I like Stewart MacDonald #149. It is very similar to the wire used by RIC.

No, The backside of the fingerboard has two narrow maple strips that fit down in to the truss channels. The truss channels are round (apparently drilled from the body end) and they curve slightly. They are closer to the back of the neck near the center.

That's gonna be one belter of a bass when it's done, Ted.

Congrats.

Thanks! I sure hope so Mark. It is still has a lot of good years in it, despite how badly it was treated. Fortunately, I have a nearly perfect 4004C to use as an example.

Ted, you should be featured on an Extreme Makeover - Rickenbacker Bass Edition show on TV. You do some great work.

Here is the new fingerboard almost ready to go. The fret slots need to be cleaned up a bit and some sanding is still required on the sides. The body still needs some attention under the bridge. If all goes well it will get a new tung oiling over the weekend.

Have you taught yourself Ted?

Ted, I am looking forward to its completion...

Ronan: Yes, I am completely self-taught. The learning curve is steep at times and I have made lots of mistakes but all in all, it is very rewarding to me.

Ted

Speaking as someone who seldom does more then a fairly simple set up, it really is quite awe-inspiring watching some of the jobs you've undertaken (same goes for 1 or 2 of our other Forumeers), and I really am learning some interesting stuff. Thanks for the giving us the opportunity to experience these "makeovers".

Thanks Shaun! Hopfully the 4004C will be done by next week. I have another on the way that should prove to be interesting.

The frets are in and the bass plays very nicely even with a cobbled together setup. The action is about 3/32nds at the 20th fret. The neck is straight with no tension on the rods.

...a bit of an improvment. There is a bit of a visible glue line because the edge of the neck was slightly damaged when the previous owner removed the fingerboard. The line is consistent and very nearly straight. The original board was broken in 3 places during the process. Hence the reason for the replacement.