Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Hello all,

So around a year ago, I purchased a 1975 4001 (https://reverb.com/item/29631283-ricken ... -with-case) on a bargain because of it's condition. Right now, its a couch bass, but I'd love to be able to get it gig-ready. How much work would is needed to restore this bass to its former glory? I'm located in Atlanta and also will take recommendations on a quality Rickenbacker luthier.

Only with it in a luthier’s hands could they tell you the answer to that question.

All things are possible with enough money.

Is it playable? That crack in the neck doesn't look too bad.

First off it is a nice bass, Congratulations! I think what needs done vs what you have done could be a big difference. If it were me - I'd have the neck crack evaluated and repaired. Probably either spot clear coat or an entire refin...???? I'd swap out the tail piece for a V2. All would definitely depend on finding a good luthier who has worked Rickenbackers before and doesn't dislike them. I think the bass is totally correctable and would be worth the effort. As to a luthier in your area I have no idea. Good luck and keep us updated of your project.

Welcome Justin.

That doesn't look too bad from here.

Post the most relevant pics here... Reverb links to completed sales can be funky and may go away in the future. The neck/fretboard issue is the classic thing of someone not knowing how to adjust the old style rods. Should be a huge problem - fixable anyway. Other spots on the bass make me wonder what happened to it... water damage? A mighty whack? The cracking around the binding, but in the wood, near the upper strap button are the first time I've seen that.

$2500.00 for THAT bass? Even if the neck didn't have a pretty severe crack, it's way overpriced. especially for a "couch" bass.

You could send relevant pictures to Larry Davis, one of the best Rickenbacker luthiers and see if he can give you a ballpark estimate.
https://www.davisguitarworks.com/

There is recent thread on this Forum showcasing an extensive customization of a bass by Larry:

viewtopic.php?f=2&t=417050

Keep in mind that the bass may not increase in resale value equally to the work put into it, as that bass (and I am being pragmatic, not mean) is a "run of the mill" bass of that era.

Good luck with whatever course you take.

A good full resto of a collectable insturment from a desirable era, that looks great, is playable, and done by someone like Larry that knows Ricks specifically, can get you close to 100% of the value of a mint untouched example in some cases.