Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I am NOT experienced at doing anything but playing it and changing strings (sometimes). I had a friend change strings one time and he used a string winder device that chipped the head stock so now I'm totally paranoid about anyone doing anything to it. I use the HELL out of it as the backing rhythm guitarist in our band, so all the fret dividers are really worn down (as is the fretboard). Our bands original songs are totally dependent on the Ricky-backed sound - I just can't get the same "feel" with other guitar sounds even using the same amp! (I also use a Rickenbacker TR75 amp with a footswitch for distortion on/off).

I've got a "girl cure" on the guitar using tips of toothpicks in the nut slots in order to keep the strings from buzzing intolerably. It actually works pretty good, but I am constantly retuning. So I'm reaching out for help from the forum to get the "right" part (local stores say they'd have to cut down their "stock" nuts) plus advice on where to get service (preferrably factory authorized) in Central Florida. I have a break from gigs until the end of February, so its now or never. Unfortunately, that means money is really scarce too.

I don't know if I can get a good enough picture of the guitar's nut and frets with the 3gs I've got, but if it will help I'll try - let me know.

Thanks to all!!!

---- I got a response from Gary C. (Doctor Who) and he said "I looked at the nut on my 481 and a stock nut (available from Rickenbacker or a RIC dealer) probably won't work because the slots have to be at an angle, meaning that a blank nut will need to used and slots cut into it at the correct angle. I'll see if I can post some pictures of mine later." He also recommended that I post here. ---

Yes, the nut slots will have to be cut to accomodate the slanted nature of the fretboard. A competent luthier should be able to handle the job, Rick expert or otherwise. As long as you have the original nut I don't see why it'd be a problem to cut a new one to match. Considering these guitars were last manufactured in 1982 I don't think Rickenbacker will have any on hand, but they might be able to make one for you. I've found their support to be very accomodating, if you call them.

Here are a couple of pictures of the headstock/nut on my 481.
Both the slots and the ends are angled.