Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Can anyone recommend the use of these pads on Ricks? Are they really safe for the finish? I have never used them, but I need something for when I forget to cover my belt buckle.

I'm not sure what the composition of the copolymer layer is that provides the cling, but I think that, since so many guitars have delicate nitro finishes, it would be safe to use one of these on a conversion varnish finish. Also, the glossier the guitar's finish is, the better the copolymer will adhere. Just be sure the guitar is nice and clean. You don't want to grind any dirt into the finish.

This, of course won't protect the edges, which are the most vulnerable areas of any guitar.

Anyone remember the old Parker Body Guards that they sold for Fenders back in the late '60s? These were vacuum-formed PETG, quite tough, and came in clear and colors. Fairly rare now. They still pop up on EBay from time to time. I had one for my then-new '67 Mustang...

The back pads on some Gretsch models conveniently cover the huge access hole in the backs of these.

Then Vox did it too on their deluxe models. No hole to cover, though...

Paul, thanks for the response. I want to make sure I don't ruin my Ricks carelessly now that I have finally managed to get a couple that I am really proud of.
John Williams was telling me that you have a great knowledge of what to do when a scratch is discovered on a Rick. I found one that my belt buckle caused and thankfully it was not very deep but it is about an inch long and it won't rub off. It is hard to see it unless the light hits it just right. He mentioned something called Zimal and Scratchex, I think. Am I correct and do you still recommend using those products?

Yes, Jay, and I'm glad you asked!

These are spelled slightly differently, though still phonetically:

Scratch-X and Zymol.

If you use the "search" feature of this site, you'll find numerous references to these two great products and how to use them properly in Rickenbacker care.

Thanks, Paul. I already did. I should have thought to search before I bothered you, but I wasn't sure about the spelling. I happened to remember John also mentioned the curmudgeon thing, so I found it. You certainly have the problem covered. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I have printed out your instructions and I am going to get that list of items. I'm leaving on a short trip, but when I return the scratch treatment will be top priority and I will let you know if I make it worse or help it. Thanks again.

Jay - remember to get sunglasses. After the treatment, you'll need 'em! Check out the fingerboard after.