Another bridge question

[Fathomer1977]

Getting ready to install an adjustable bridge to replace my current, warped bridge. Just got the old bridge off and noticed new bridge is about a 1/4" taller then the old bridge due to material at the foot. Am I going to damage the bridge by removing the material? How much can go? I'm not positive original bass was set up correctly which is why I ask if it can be removed.

[CPike]

I would recommend you take the new bridge to a luthier to have it properly fitted. You can't simply swap it out for the old one, as there is a lot more to it than just fitting the feet.

Chris

[Damon Rondeau]

Fathomer -- bridges on violin family instruments must be custom-fit to the instrument. The bridge feet especially have to fit exactly right. The reason your new bridge feet are oversize (the whole bridge, practically, is oversize) is to allow for custom fitting. It's not easy to do if you don't already have substantial woodworking chops. Even if you do, the most sensible thing to do is to take it to a pro bass luthier.

[bearfoot]

You might check this, my favorite website even before I owned an URB
http://www.ehhs.cmich.edu/~dhavlena/bassetup.htm

A bit informal, but I like it that way. Gave me the courage/knowledge to setup my bass. I even got some maple and made my own bridge ... now that I cannot recommend! It took 2 attempts and more hours than it was worth. But at least I got my Shortbus Luthiery merit badge...