Rickenbacker 5 String - advice needed

[Ricky D]

Hi out there. this is my first post and I would appreciate any advice. I cannot use my Rickenbacker 4003/S5 as the string spacings are too narrow (I bought it sight unseen). I'm thinking of converting it to a 4 string i.e. change the bridge and nut and probably leaving the superfluous winder. Will the pick-ups also need changing?

Ricky D

 

[bongomania]

Honestly, since the 4003/S5 is so rare and coveted, your best best would be to trade it for a regular Ric plus cash. I would not convert it, as then it will lose a huge amount of resale value.

 

[superdick2112]

Honestly, since the 4003/S5 is so rare and coveted, your best best would be to trade it for a regular Ric plus cash. I would not convert it, as then it will lose a huge amount of resale value.

+1 !! Sorry its not working out for you, but you should easily get enough for it to buy a new 4003 4-stringer.

 

[Engine207]

Else play it constantly until you get used to it...that's one cool bass. Ric5 (Jeff Rath) should be here shortly to comment

 

[Billy3000]

I agree. If you don't like it but still want a Ric, trade it for a 4 string plus some cash.

 

[s4001]

I agree. If you don't like it but still want a Ric, trade it for a 4 string plus some cash.

+4

 

[Ric5]

I have owned quite a few 4003s5 basses. They are wonderful and slightly flawed instruments. The string spacing stock is 2 1/16". That is fine if you are a 100% pick player. If you play fingerstyle then that is a problem. The good news is the bass can be modified to play better. I have modified several 4003s5 basses that I used to own to have a wider string spacing. By simply replacing the saddles and cutting the string grooves differently I can get a spacing of 2 1/4" or 2 3/8". That is still a little on the tight side but it is much more playable.

Don't convert it to a 4 string. You can trade it for a 4 string Ric or sell it and make enough to buy a new Ric.

What color is it?

 

[Ric5]

This was my main bass years ago. i modified it to have a wider spacing.

 

[JPrinos]

I've been looking to trade my 78 4001 for a 5 string Rickenbaker. Too bad you're all the way on the other side of the world...

 

[Ricky D]

Thanks - mighty quick responses. I see the wisdom in trading it. I'll put it on the market and see how I go.

Ricky D.

 

[Ric5]

Also if you convert it to a 4 string then the headstock will always look odd.

 

[kcole4001]

I'm sure somebody will be ecstatic to find an available s5, especially in Oz.
It's definitely worth more than a regular 4 string 4003.

 

[RobJ]

Definitely deal it away and buy a 4 string Rick as opposed to modding it. I expect that would greatly devalue the bass.