Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I've just received a a '76 4001 that's in decent condition but has seen some modification in its lifetime. I'm looking to have it restored to original (or at least period-correct) condition. To that end, I have a few questions:

1. At some point the bass was refinished in a sort of transparent black. Is there any way I can determine for certain what its original color was?
2. I'm 98% sure that the Hipshot tuners aren't original, can anyone confirm?
3. The neck pickup doesn't appear to be secured in its slot at all; it just moves around freely, and easily falls out and gets stuck on the strings. What parts do I need to secure it?
4. Who would you recommend I go to for a full restoration? I'd prefer someone I can drive to from Philadelphia, but I can ship the instrument if need be.

Photos attached

Here are some close-ups of the neck pickup:

The neck pickup cover is missing. The pickguard is clearly not original, and the original tuners should be Kluson reverse style.

talk to Pick of the Ricks, he's near you. I recommend Larry Davis (Davis Guitar Works in Florida) for a full restoration and refinish, he specializes in Ricks. You'll probably have to stick to a solid color since that black has likely seeped into the wood. Good luck!

The pickup just needs two screws and springs - easy!

That's a cool finish, I'd just leave it unless there is a technical issue with it.

Like Jeffrey, I love the trans black finish, though it's certainly not original. I'd keep it, if it were my choice.