Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I just got a call from my guitar repair guy. The replacement bridge saddles ordered direct from Rickenbacker aren't shaped! Is this a common occurence? My 370/12 came to me with the octave strings in the "wrong" position (not Ric style, the guy I bought it from actually paid to have it done for some reason). I knew I'd have to fix it, but I didn't see it as a big problem. Fortunately the original nut was in the case, so I don't have to replace it, but some of the saddles need to be replaced.
Now the repair guy has to find out from Ric if he orders a complete bridge, will the saddles be shaped?
He's trying to avoid having to charge me for extra work shaping the saddles. It sounds like they sent him 6 little metal squares!
Anyone else have a similar experience?

Saddles will have to be shaped. Its probably a good thing too. This way the saddles can shaped to match the curve of your fretboard.

I thought so. Then ordering a new bridge assembly will not help as the saddles will not be shaped on there either?

Correct.

Thanks very much John. I just called him back and told him not to waste his time. In spite of this small inconvenience, it's nice to know that a Rickenbacker guitar is a finely crafted instrument that isn't just bolted together from parts stamped out of a big machine. This is my first Ric, and it's the best guitar I've ever owned.
I must buy another one as soon as I can!