Setting 335 bridge

Early years of Rickenbacker Guitars prior to and including 1972

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charlie chitlins
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Setting 335 bridge

Post by charlie chitlins »

When I set the height on the bridge of my 335, I feel like I want even tension on all 4 screws so there is maximum contact and stability.
In order to do this, the bridge ends out being tilted quite towards the tail.
I'm new to Ricks, so the response to this may be "Duh...that's just how it's done," or not.
Is this way of setting the bridge common?
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jdogric12
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Re: Setting 335 bridge

Post by jdogric12 »

Shouldnt be that way... post some pics?
charlie chitlins
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Re: Setting 335 bridge

Post by charlie chitlins »

I still haven't found a hosting site so I can post pics...since photobucket went nuts.
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jdogric12
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Re: Setting 335 bridge

Post by jdogric12 »

Just use MS Paint to resize and post here.
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iiipopes
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Re: Setting 335 bridge

Post by iiipopes »

The various tension you feel in each of the bridge adjustment the screws may be a result of manufacturing tolerances resulting in slightly different threads, slightly different springs, accumulated grime or corrosion, or a whole bunch of things. Don't rely on the screw tension to set your bridge. Rely on the manual and getting the bridge level front-to-back and adjusted side-to-side as necessary for your desired action. Occasionally, through normal vibration, a screw may work a little loose; if that is the case, just screw it down until it is slightly firm without altering the geometry of the bridge setup.
charlie chitlins
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Re: Setting 335 bridge

Post by charlie chitlins »

So...even without a pic, it's easy to imagine.
The saddles are in the rear 1/3 of their adjustable travel, naturally putting more stress on the rear screws.
If I set the bridge level, it's clear that the rear screws have more tension; when I equalize the tension, the bridge slants slightly to the rear....this makes total sense to me.
I've been a mechanic for umpteen years and have a pretty practiced hand when it comes to doing stuff by feel.
Should I set it flat and have unequal tension?
I guess it wouldn't hurt to have more pressure on the rear screws.
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