Replacing AGB Bridge

[Apt403]

Does anyone know where I can source a metal bridge for an AGB, like the one Warwick uses on their Alien model? I got a Dean Playmate about a year ago, and my only real gripe with it is the bridge. There's just something about it that doesn't seem like it's really the best solution for bass strings. Namely that the pins randomly pop out, leaving me wondering how long I have until the strings follow suit.

[ByF]

I can't help you with finding the metal bridge, but there are some things that can be done to keep the pins from popping out:

1) Get a tapered reamer from StewMac to match the taper of your pins. Carefully ream each hole so that it holds the pin more securely.

2) Cut a notch down the side of the hole through the bridge for the string to rest in. That will keep the string from pulling the pin out of the hole. Not suprisingly, StewMac sells a little saw blade with a wooden handle that does just this job.

3) When you are installing new strings, reach down through the sound hole and check with your fingers that the ball-end on the string is along side of the pin, not pulling on the end of the pin.

Ed