Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I have an Ibanez clone bass, that is P-Bass style. I have had all of the electronics replaced, getting a nice authentic Fender Vintage P-style Pickup, new wiring, pots and tuners last fall.

I would like to replace the neck, maybe going fretless. I could use some tips on how to go about making sure I find one that fits properly. This bass is probably from around 1985, and is called a "Seiwa Rockman" (another reason why I want to get rid of the neck...to get rid of that label on the headstock!)....a Japanese knockoff. It does sound nice now

Would you think this is generic enough to find an easy match? Anything special to look for as far as how it bolts to the body? How about brands of replacement necks? Expected cost?

Thanks in advance

Biggish order, Greg.

Here's part of what you'll need:

First, you need to measure the neck pocket L X W X D. Necks vary widely (and longly, and deeply). You want zero slop in the pocket. The mounting holes (if already drilled) are not too important--they can be redrilled and plugged if necessary.

Replacement necks vary a lot in quality. Many of the lower-cost necks (even Fender-licensed parts) are made of very, very light and soft, accelerated farm growth maple. Often fret jobs on cheaper necks are only half-done and will cut your fingers if not finished completely.

Go for a better-quality neck with a nice fret job. How do you know? Price is a good yardstick.

Then you'll need the 12th fret-to-neck end distance. Of course, you'll want the new neck to have the same number of frets. This ensures that scale length is correct.

Drill, screw. Repeat 4X. Check action with a long steel or aluminum scale (yardstick). Shim as required. String. Tune. Check truss rods. Set up, play.

Repeat 4x or 3x?

Whew....so they're not just plug'n'play huh Paul? Thanks for the info!

RInse, and repeat.

Bored in the shower, eh, Charly?!