Anyone changed the bridge on the Epiphone Vintage Pro Thunderbird (or Embassy)?

[kln_bc]

I'm considering picking up an Epi Tbird to scratch that itch...I dont think I'll ever NOT want a bird, and Gibsons are just too expensive for how much I would likely use it.

Anyway, I'm eyeing the Vintage Pro, there's one in my area...I'm wondering though if anyone has changed out that Tune-o-matic bridge and Claw tailpiece? It's the same one on the Embassy as well. I'm sure it works ok, but Ive had issues with similar bridges before, and I have a feeling at some point I'll want it gone (also, I may want to swap to gold hardware and style it like the Gibson Rex Brown).

If anyone has swapped I'd love to know what you used. Or maybe someone has the measurements? I was looking at this Hipshot as a possibility:

4 String D Style Bass Bridge

But I don't know if it will fit obviously, without buying the bass and measuring.

 

[GIBrat51]

You might want to ask this question over on the Thunderbird Club page. I imagine that more than one member has done this very thing, and can tell you what you want to know... Personally, I like my left handed '13 Gibson T-Bird just the way it came from the factory, but I'm in a pretty small minority there...