Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I'm continuing to have trouble with the Kaufmann on my Capri, like many before me I'm sure. I've heard the vibrato unit can be pinned in place, preventing the vibrato function of course, but allowing the guitar to stay in tune for longer than three seconds.

How do I go about doing this?

Paul W, you've suggested I do this also, rather than replace the vibrato with a trapeze tailpiece. Have you got any tips?

Thanks in advance......

You bet. I've done this with both my Kauffmans, and it makes a world of difference in their holding tune.

You must remove the unit, take the arm off, and place the unit on a cloth (avoids scratching--I like to use a DIAPER) on a very solid flat surface, like a granite plate or gravestone (I'm not kidding...) A machined surface like a saw table or a marble countertop is also good. A nice smooth concrete floor, etc. You get the idea. A wooden tabletop simply will not work. The thing will bounce all over the place and you'll wreck it.

Next, procure a nice, sharp center punch or pointed nail set, and a hammer. Turn the Kauffman over and using the center punch, punch two or three dimples in the edge of each rivet head to lock them to the case and keep them from pivoting.

Takes about ten minutes to do, once you get into the cemetery and have all your kit set up properly.

Reinstall the K and restring.

I'm wincing at the though of it! Good luck, Darren....

Take a sharpened wooden stake, mallet and a silver cross just in case - you never know who might take an interest in your activities....

Bwaahahaaa!!

Paul, thanks for your excellent advice, as usual. It's obviously an irreversible procedure and I don't want to bugger up the potential resale value of my Capri with the original Kaufmann (even though the bloody thing won't stay in tune!).

As luck has it, I have a spare reissue Kaufmann unit to which I shall perform the necessary surgical recommendations. I will report on my success or otherwise shortly.

Aitch, no doubt you will probably hear me yell if I slip with the hammer and get my fingers instead. Sounds like I should set up the video camera just in case...I might win a prize on Funniest Home Videos if I make a mess of it!

Absolutely, Darren! I have the popcorn ready as well as the number I should dial to vote for the clip....