I'm frustrated . . .

Jason · Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2003 12:55 pm Post subject: I'm frustrated . . .

Alright I have a very frustrating situation I need help on . . . the D string on my mid 80s Mexican P bass keeps slipping down and buzzing against the neck at inconvenient times. That forces me to stop playing of course and loosen the string and adjust the saddle up really high and it's just downright annoying. What I want to know is, is this just caused by string vibration? And what do I do to fix it? I replaced both saddle screws on that string but that hasn't done a thing really and I thought maybe the threads inside the saddle itself were stripped, but they appear okay . . . any input you guys would have would be appreciated.

ayers1963 · Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2003 1:48 pm Post subject: I'm frustrated . . .

I imagine the problem lies in the saddle-- take the saddle into a local shop and see if they have one in their odds-n-ends drawer. I recently bought one this way and they charged me two dollars for the saddle with the adjusting screws and the intonation screw/spring. It probably is the vibration that is causing the screws to back out.

Best wishes!

daveman · Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2003 1:02 am Post subject: I'm frustrated . . .

You might want to ask Roy over at www.fendertalk.com

I had the same problem years ago with my 72 JB, so it's not a new problem. The threads just are not real tight in those saddles (means they were made right - high precision). I tried glue, nail polish, wax, tape, and all sorts of adjustments and none worked to my satisfaction. However, the nail polish worked pretty good. I finally replaced my entire bridge with a massive brass bridge I found in a pawn and music store. It's worked great ever since.

A solution is to go down to the hardware store and pickup a small bottle of LocTite thread sealer. Just a touch on each of the saddle screws is all that's needed. Too much, and they may never move again.

Dave