Mute Adjustment Query

[spongebob]

Bit of a dopey question here, but If I don't ask I'll never know.....!

A couple of months back I picked up my first 4001, a '78 Burgundyglo. I've had a few 4003's, and currently play an '11 Jetglo....by far and above the best '03 I've ever had - it's a bass monster!

I've never really done much adjustment to the mutes of my Rics - I'm aware of the mechanism that exists on the bridge to alter it.

However, my 4001 is totally original except for the mute adjusters (and pup cover...). The mute is still in place (but looking a bit aged, but that's how it should be), but the adjuster have been replaced by a screw each side. They've obviously been in place for many years looking at them.

I thought it was some sort of mod, and then I saw another Ric on E-bay with the same thing, 2 screws where the adjusters should be.

Does anyone know why they would have been replaced? Were some 4001's made with screws rather than the regular adjusters? I can't see why they are there with the rubber mute still in place!

Bass itself is lovely. Brilliant contrast to the full-on tone of the '11 4003, the 4001 just gives out the 'older' sound with ease. I just love 'em both!

[cjj]

Some people replace the adjuster screws (which are the same as the earlier strap buttons) with regular machine screws so that they don't hit them with their hands...

[spongebob]

Thanks Cjj!

Nothing sinister after all....

[ilan]

That's a great looking bass. Congrats!

[spongebob]

Thanks Ilan!

Burgundy was always my dream colour if I was to own a 4001...really glad I took the plunge.