Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Hi,

I just got a new (and my first) Rickenbacker 4003 Bass and I have a couple questions on it.

1) The toggle switch for the pickups seems a bit loose. What I mean is it I can wiggle the switch itself a little left and right. The switch itself is screwed on well I was just wonder if it should have have this little movement left and right?

2) When I plug my cord into the Ric O Sound jack on the bass I only get sound out of one pickup. Is that normal? Also, a link to any info on utilizing the stereo outputs and what they do etc... would be great.

3) Are these standard strap lock strap posts on the bass for use with any strap locks or is it a specific brand I should get to match up with them?

4) Any tips on the best way to get the stickers that come on the bass off (the sticky goo stickers leave behind) without using goo gone or something that could eat at the finish on the pick guard.

Thanks in advance for any help on my questions,

Paul W.

Welcome, Paul!

1) A little bit of play is normal for the switch so long as it is functioning normally and "locks" into place for the up and down positions.

2) To properly use the ROS jack you need a TRS stereo cable that splits the two pickups to separate outputs; the mono cable you are currently using is doing exactly what it should do when plugged into the stereo ROS jack.

3) Schaller strap locks are what you want for the buttons on you Rick.

4) Naphtha and a cotton rag/diaper is you friend, here.

Hey Paul, welcome to the RRF!


What Jeff said...

Thanks CJJ

I am very excited about finally getting this bass after wanting one for over 20 years.

Welcome Paul! Congrats on scratching the 20 year itch. I remember that feeling with my first; my wait was 33 years.

To elaborate on the ROS; Standard is a mono jack output that has both pickups available dependent on the selector switch, whereas the ROS jack has the bridge pickup on the tip and the neck pickup on the ring of the stereo plug (TRS that Jeff spoke of) but still dependent on the selector switch, which comes after the pickups but before the volume/tone controls then the out jacks.

Bayou Cables and Pick of the Ricks have really nice ones for sale. Search the forums for a lot more info.

Welcome to THE forum Paul. Picture????

Welcome to the forum Paul!