Thanks brother, I tried to reach out to two very reputable Ric repair guys and they advised against it - cost and potential of it returning. Also, when a "new" bass shows up with problems right away I can never get into it again...
Fingers crossed it works out. I am on the hunt for something cool to replace it hopefully
I don't blame you, especially the sacrifice you made to get it... no worries, mate... It'll get resolved, I'm sure! I like the positive thought of finding it's replacement... as I told @Mantis Tobaggan , that wasn't YOUR bass, now was it? Looking forward to update of 'coolness'...