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Squier Rascal: from Mustang to "Regular" Bridge and More

Almuzura

Almuzura

Apr 15, 2020
71
78
44
Barrington, IL
#1
Hello everybody,

I was wondering, has anyone replaced the Mustang-style bass bridge on a Squier Rascal with a "regular" bridge? I found two models that might be compatible with the original bridge holes: the Badass Bass III and the B Style Fender Mount 2. Has anyone had any luck with these?

If I succeed with that, I will replace the pickguard with a custom-made one (maybe pearloid). Any suggestions on where to get one made? I will have the tone and volume knobs moved towards the jack input so that they are not in the way when I palm mute.

I am posting a poorly executed photo simulation of how my modified instrument might look.

Reasons for changing the bridge:
  1. Aesthetics
  2. Because accessing the intonation screws on the Mustang bridge is a nightmare
  3. Having the option to top-load the strings
Thank you,
Cheers,
Al

0377108509_sqr_ins_frt_1_rr.jpg
0377108509_sqr_ins_frt_1_rr Regular.png
 
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#4
Well, Mustang bridges usually have 17mm string spacing (versus 19mm standard), I do not know if this is also the case on the Rascal, or if the neck is narrower towards the neck pocket than usual, but it is at least one thing to be aware of, and get confirmed before swapping.
 
#5
Ritter667 said:
Well, Mustang bridges usually have 17mm string spacing (versus 19mm standard), I do not know if this is also the case on the Rascal, or if the neck is narrower towards the neck pocket than usual, but it is at least one thing to be aware of, and get confirmed before swapping.
Click to expand...
The rascal has a 19mm string spacing. Good point regarding the neck width, I didn't consider that. Thank you very much!
 
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#12
Since this discussion is about modifying the Rascal, and since many reviews says it seems like a full sized bass,
I keep seeing the Rascal platform with a 34” scale neck, replace the bridge and move it back a couple inches, and drop another pickup where the bridge was located. I know, off topic, but it does include replacing the bridge….
 
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#13
Tim Skaggs said:
Since this discussion is about modifying the Rascal, and since many reviews says it seems like a full sized bass,
I keep seeing the Rascal platform with a 34” scale neck, replace the bridge and move it back a couple inches, and drop another pickup where the bridge was located. I know, off topic, but it does include replacing the bridge….
Click to expand...
It is true, the Rascal is as long as a 34" scale bass.

In any case, I want to keep the Rascal a 30" scale bass and keep the pickups in the original position. I want to be able to revert back to the original form factor should I wish to do so in the future.

I think that what makes the Rascal special is the fact that it's a 30" scale within a 34" scale bass, which is made possible by the bridge moved towards the neck which makes my playing much more comfortable, allowing my arm to be in a more natural position.

Thank for your suggestions, anyway. Cheers
 
#15
96tbird said:
Kinda high tech looking for a vintagey looking body.To my eye take it or leave it. I would go with a Fender vintage threaded myself; your concept is good though, that Mustang bridge plate is huge for no good reason.
Click to expand...
That's something to keep in mind. This is how it looks like.
And yes, the original bridge is huge, whereas the Hipshot and the Badass are the same size as the humbuckers. I feel like it would have more balanced esthetics with such a bridge.
 

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#20
Almuzura said:
Thank you for your reply. I was thinking the Badass would be better for palm muting as the strings are more exposed, unlike on the Hipshot. Just my thought, I have no experience with the Hipshots.
Click to expand...
Hmm. I couldn’t say for sure but the hip shot drawings say the plate is only 1/4” thick so I don’t think muting would be an issue.

But, I’m all about the Fender vintage threaded saddle bridge so I should just step aside now, Since you seem to prefer higher mass.
https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/0990804100--fender-vintage-style-bass-bridge-assembly
 

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