Mods on an old five string

[PeaveyPippin]

I have a five string squire that I bought when I first got thrust into the bass world...long story for another thread perhaps.

Anyway, I've since moved on to a few different basses, but I've recently been entertaining the idea of fixing up the old girl and seeing what she could be capable of in her prime. I've never made any modifications to any of my basses or guitars so I've come to TB for advice.

First things first, Pups. I like and play all kinds of music so versatility is what I'm looking for over any particular sound. The basses electronics as they stand are active, not sure if that makes any difference in what kind I'd need to look for.

Second thing is the action. I've lowered everything as far as I can get it and it's still not as comfortable as my other basses and I'm even getting fret noise in some places. I'm thinking a five string Badass II bridge for starters, but if that's not enough would raising the neck with a spacer be a viable option?

Finally, and least important, but still on my list of things I'd change if I could, a pick guard. It's just a burst finish and I think a tort guard would look great. Would that hurt or crack the finish in other places drilling four or five holes? Is that worth the risk?

Thanks in advance for all suggestions and advice.

 

[Ewo]

About the action: I wouldn't change any parts until I'd gotten the bass to play as well as it can. I'd do a setup first, then consider mods--or abandon the idea.

How much neck relief do you have? Start there.

(If you're unfamiliar with setups and action adjustments, search TB for the threads. IIRC, there's a good one that's a sticky in the bass guitar forum.)

 

[FunkMetalBass]

1. Delano
2. Get the new bridge and take it to a pro. He may recommend a shim, or a fret level, or both. It's impossible to fully diagnose online.
3. Probably not. You only need very small holes, and if you start off with a 1/16" drill bit first, you should be fine. In any case, the pickguard would overhang enough to cover any small chipping. A technique I've used for top drilling is to start the pilot hole, then progressively move up the sizes using the drill in reverse. It is a lot tamer and there's virtually no chipping. Probably a worthless technique for your needs, though.