New bridge for '83 P-bass

Tommy O · #1 07-07-2010, 05:38 PM

Hi,
I'm Tom, long time observer, first time poster.

I just bought a 1983 Precision in great condition but I can't get the action I want from it.
I've done the best I can with the neck and this bridge(which did have some spare part in it).
I'm wondering if anyone might be able to lead me in the right direction on this matter.
I've always wanted a Precision and an '83 definetly qualifies as "vintage" but I'm not interested in a "show-piece" I want to play this bass.
I've heard of players installing Badass bridges on Precisions and having success. Is this an utter bastardization of the instrument?

Thanks,

Tommy O

testing1two · #2 07-07-2010, 06:34 PM

If action is the issue then it's just a matter of putting a shim in the neck pocket. If you want to make the bass a little brighter, a high mass bridge like a Badass can help. Just make sure you give the bass a fair chance before you start changing hardware arbitrarily. P-basses tend to sound pretty great stock.

Turock · #3 07-07-2010, 07:24 PM

Try a shim first.

Tommy O · #4 07-07-2010, 08:00 PM

Interesting.. I never would've considered raising the neck.
Pictures of the Badass led me to believe that lower saddles was the answer.

Shimming the neck pocket... is this a common practice?
What materials/thicknesses are commonly used?

Thanks for your interest.

BigOldHarry · #5 07-07-2010, 08:05 PM

It might be useful to post a picture of the bridge - perhaps there's something bunged up in it... I, for one, have not seen too many basses with the truss set up correctly that couldn't be set up right...

walterw · #6 07-07-2010, 09:53 PM

besides, a badass is more likely to make the action higher, not lower.

before you do any of this, are you sure the neck is straight, as in .012" or less relief?

FunkMetalBass · #7 07-08-2010, 07:38 AM

1. If you're going to replace a bridge, I'd recommend a Hipshot - they can drill the holes for a direct drop-in replacement. Badass bridges require you to file your own saddles.

2. Definitely try a shim first. Cut a business card to match the neck pocket closest to the pickup and put the neck back on. The idea here is to raise the neck and angle it back slightly to be more parallel with the strings.

Pilgrim · #8 07-08-2010, 07:57 AM

The BadAss will raise, not lower, the strings.

A shim is the most practical way to adjust the action. I agree...try one thickness of business card in the bottom half of the neck pocket..you'll be surprised at how much difference it makes.

slyjoe · #9 07-09-2010, 07:59 AM

A shim may not be necessary.

My 1983 P has the micro tilt in the 4 hole neck plate. That can work as a shim. Has it ever been adjusted?