re-string strings that were being used

bommer · #1 06-07-2009, 08:33 PM

my bass is getting a little dirty under the strings, near the pickups, so i was wondering, would it be a bad idea (or even possible) to take off the stings i have on right now, clean up the bass, then re-string the bass with the strings i just took off?

all help appreciated, thanks.

Craig_S · #2 06-07-2009, 08:48 PM

I'd just get a new set of strings.

southshoreconor · #3 06-07-2009, 08:56 PM

i'd say if the bass had collected enough dust under the strings since the last time you changed them, it's time for new strings. however it's completely possible, just be careful with the strings make sure they are seated on the bridge the same way they were when they go back on/up to tension.

Mastermold · #4 06-07-2009, 11:39 PM

If they are flatwounds, yes put them back on and keep using them. Flats sound better with age. But if they're rounds I'd change them.

mrufino1 · #5 06-08-2009, 08:51 AM

Yes, no reason to change them, just take them off, clean, and restring. You can also just fit a cloth under there and wipe the bass down. You could also use compressed air I guess. Or you could just leave it alone, that's what I do.

hookshot76 · #6 06-08-2009, 09:04 AM

try to boil the strings for 15 minutes,the dirt will be removed from the strings... or soak in denatured alcohol...

FunkMetalBass · #7 06-08-2009, 10:42 AM

There's nothing wrong with it. I do it all the time to instruments that I feel need to be cleaned. I rarely change my strings unless it's specifically for recording or they break.

bommer · #8 06-08-2009, 01:05 PM

alright, thanks everyone. but how do i tell if they are flats or rounds? and does boiling the strgins really do anything?

Lowtonejoe · #9 06-08-2009, 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bommer

alright, thanks everyone. but how do i tell if they are flats or rounds? and does boiling the strgins really do anything?

Boiling them will get them really clean. Depending on the string it can bring back some of the zing of new new string but as long as a new string.

Flats have a flat texture to the surface. They feel really slick. Rounds have a rough or bumpy texture to the surface.

There are a few exceptions to this. TI Flats have what looks like a very tiny gap between wraps. If you run your fingernail along the string you can feel it but generally not when you play. DR Hellborgs seem to have an even rougher texture than regular rounds. But I love their tone.

Joe.

::Saint:: · #10 06-08-2009, 01:35 PM

The short answer is no, there's nothing wrong with doing this; i.e. its not going to hurt anything. If you are happy with the current sound of your strings then have at 'er. I do this all the time with my bass as I seem to be constantly swapping out between my DR Nickel Lo-Riders (Roundwound) and my Rotosound 77's (Flats) to get a different sound. Of course it is always nice to have new strings too, but given the cost of a set (especially on my 5-string), conservation never hurts either.

I've never actually tried the boiling thing but a lot of people say it works wonders.

The only thing I would recommend if you do change your strings is to make sure to change with the same gauge of string, otherwise you will need to re-intonate your bass and probably get the neck adjusted as well due to the difference in tension. Another good reason to stick with your current strings.

bommer · #11 06-08-2009, 07:53 PM

thanks for the help everyone