Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Hi all,

I have a 360/6 with the R-tailpiece. I was wondering if the Trapeze style is a drop in replacement (i.e. no new holes). I like the R but find the trapeze more aesthetically pleasing--is there any drawbacks/benefits to either? The trapeze is easier to string, I believe? Thanks in advance for your help.

Joe: Good questions. The trapeze is not a "drop in replacement" in that you will need to drill new holes for the trapeze bracket. The good news is that the trapeze tailpiece bracket covers the holes from the R tailpiece bracket. The bad news is there is no going back without filling holes.

I like the "older" look of the trapeze, it is easier and quicker to string. I also find that it stays in better tune, but no so much better that I would switch the "R" for a trapeze for this reason alone.

This look is one reason why I like the trapeze.

I wonder about the difference in screw hole patterns for the two tailpieces. If a trapeze bracket was drilled to the pattern for the R tailpiece bracket would there be a problem with the tension placed on the bracket or screws with the "new" hole pattern ? Has anyone tried this or is anyone aware of a problem in doing so ?

Brian: I spent some time thinking about this. The R tailpiece bracket has three holes, only one of which is common with the trapeze bracket. the patterns are quite different.

I suspect that three holes would be sufficient to hold the bracket in place, however, I am more comfortable with the four for greater stability.