Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Hello

I obtained a 1977 Rickenbacker 4001 bass, with case. One of the locks is broken off, the other was locked when it was shipped to me, but without a key, so I had to pry it open with a screwdriver thus bending the lock.

I can still close the case with the middle latch, which does not lock, but doesn't look the sturdiest.

I can buy a new case for ~$350, but obviously don't want to spend the money if not needed, and it's kinda interesting to keep the original case for this vintage bass.

1. Is there any reasonable way to replace these locks?
2. Or suggestions for repairing the bent lock, and how to get a replacement key?

Thanks!

Forget about repairing the lock that is there (and the same key opens ALL of these cases, and damn near every Fender case of that era too).

Just replace the entire locking latch on both sides. You can find these parts on eBay or Reverb.

Warning though, it’s not very easy to swap these if you’ve never done one and/or you aren’t handy with repairs. It almost requires three hands, to help seat the rivets completely while keeping the latch in the right place.

Way better option than buying a new case that isn’t original to the bass.

I have been meaning for years to buy a rivet gun and get some practice at this.

Replacement parts aplenty online, look for Cheney latches.

If its a G&G Case (black with blue interior):
https://g-g-quality-case.myshopify.com/products/lock

Alternatively, according to the FAQ's, they (G&G) may be willing to repair the case for you:

"Can I send my case in for you to repair?
Yes, but we will do HARDWARE REPAIRS ONLY. The customer is responsible for the shipping cost both ways, unless your product was purchased directly from us and you received a product with defective hardware, in which case we will cover the cost of shipping and the repair. Please contact us at info@ggqualitycase.com before sending your case to us."

https://ggqualitycase.com/faq/

Mate do not muck about just buy a new case it saves all that f...ing about.

That must have been a PITA when you had to force the lock to welcome your new arrival when it finally arrived.

To everyone here:

Doesn't it depend on how the poster will use the bass and case? I have original cases on my two current Ricks. But they go into a flight case of sorts if they are going into a gear truck/trailer/car trunk.

A collector probably would lean towards fixing the latches, no?