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4001 - mute screws (sorry, pretty dull!)

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:31 am
by clarky
Hey guys, I just bought a 1980 4001FG (looks great next to my restored 3000FG - like big and little brothers) and discovered that the two chromed height adjustment screws for the mute pad on the bridge are missing. I would like to replace them for aesthetic reasons (does anyone ever use the mute pad?).

Do these have a part number or official name so I can contact Rickenbacker to get replacements? Or do you know of anyone that sells them, preferably in the UK (unlikely I know) or failing that the US? All help gratefully received, cheers Clarky

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:33 am
by jdogric12
I believe they are the same object as the vintage style strap buttons. Same part number, etc.

RIC #05901

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:34 am
by lyle_from_minneapolis
I do use the mute pad on occasion. However, when I un-mute, those mute screws rattle loosely.

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:37 am
by rickaddict
These are still avaiable from Rickenbacker. See the RIC website. Go to Boutique, then misc.

Here's a link:

http://www.rickenbacker.com/cart.asp?viewitem=05901&category=viewitem&buffer_category=Miscellaneous

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:38 am
by rickaddict
And how's that for service!

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:41 am
by incubus2432
Mark, if the rattle or loosening is an issue just remove the bridge and slightly bend the mute up in the middle. This puts a little "side loading" type force that holds the threads a tighter. Of course a little more effort may be required to raise or lower the mute but it's a trade off that may be worth it.

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:54 am
by lyle_from_minneapolis
Thanks, Brian, I'll give that a shot.

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 2:41 pm
by doctorwho
You also need to get the springs that go between the mute pad bar and the tailpiece, part # 06117:

http://www.rickenbacker.com/pdfs/btailpiece.pdf

and, to do it 'right', the washers, part # 06235, that go between the strap bolt and the tailpiece on top. Lack of springs will probably result in some rattle.

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 2:58 pm
by rictified
None of mine rattle, and I also occasionally use them.

Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 6:58 pm
by clarky
I knew I'd get the answers here! Thanks guys

Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2007 10:11 am
by doctorwho
You're welcome, Mark!

Posted: Fri Jun 22, 2007 12:49 am
by captain_jetglo
There's another place you can look for spares:
http://www.the-music-connection.com/ric.htm

I've done business with Mike a couple times and everything was fine.
Hope you can find them