replacing the fingerboard

stringsmith · #1 11-13-2006, 08:04 PM

Im planning on buying a MIM fender jazz 5 string but I want to do some mods to it just to make it my own. These basses don't come with maple fingerboards so I want to install a maple fingerboard with block inlays (pearl) Is that possible? or is it cheaper to just get another neck. If I get another neck where should I get one from? I want to keep the Fender logo on the headstock thats why I want to just change the board. I'm also planning on installing bart pups and an Audere pre. What do you guys think?

joeyl · #2 11-13-2006, 09:29 PM

cheaper to buy another neck: warmoth.com, USCG, mighty mite are all valid options. I have seen pearl blocked maple necks for around 200 or more on ebay, but that would still be cheaper than: ungluing the board, gluing back another one, reshaping, putting the inlays,fretting, dressing and adjusting.....
Fender logo on the headstock? buy a decal, and anyway everybody knows that the logo only counts when it says "MADE in USA" underneath it

tplyons · #3 11-13-2006, 11:03 PM

It'll be cheaper to replace the neck, HOWEVER, I'm not sure that any aftermarket necks would fit that neck pocket. Check with the guys at Warmoth.com to be sure. Other than that, if you REALLY want maple, you have two options:

Having a luthier build one to your specs or
Replacing the fingerboard

Both of which would probably cost as much or more than the bass did.

stringsmith · #4 11-14-2006, 08:46 PM

thanks guys. I just wanted to see if it was possible. Maybe I will go with the neck option. I want a five string and I don't have a lot of cash to by something like a Sadowski or Lakland so I thought I would try tricking out a Mexican Fender to get me by. I'll keep you posted.