string alignment on pre-EB

[Freddels]

Take some measurements. Measure each of the saddles and measure the space b/w the bolts on the bridge and let us know what you have.

 

[Rod Trussbroken]

stamos.

As I mentioned previously the saddles should be 3/4 inch wide.

Have you've measured each saddle?

The saddles on the EB Classic Series Basses are the same width although a tad larger in diameter.

 

[stamos]

I found these on eBay. Do u think they could fit?

4 String Musicman Sterling Stingray Bass Guitar Bridge | eBay

CHROME MUSIC MAN® OLP® STYLE 4-STRING BASS BRIDGE | eBay

 

[stamos]

Another thought!

Is there any possibility that the problem is not the size of the saddles but the size of the two holding bolts. Maybe they have changed (they look rusted too)...

 

[Freddels]

Another thought!

Is there any possibility that the problem is not the size of the saddles but the size of the two holding bolts. Maybe they have changed (they look rusted too)...

That's why I suggested measurements.

 

[stamos]

Good news!!

I totally dismantled the bridge and the problem was not the size of the saddles (which seem original indeed).
The problem was the wrong high adjustment of the saddles, creating an angle at the saddle positioning (especially for A) pushing the other saddles at the sides when aligned together.

The photos show the difference both before and after where difference is obvious.

The bass intonated is also shown in pic above, but the G string misalignment with pickup poles still remains. I adjusted the pup height from G side and there is a sgnificant increase in loudness indeed. Anyway, I will also try the next gig to test it 100%.

 

[BobKos]

Just a thought. Sometimes the strings cross the pickups wrong because the neck has shifted in the pocket. You may want to loosen the strings a little bit. Then slightly loosen the neck mounting screws. Shift the neck up / down and see if the string alignment improves across the pickups and down the neck. Fender basses are famous for this and older 4 bolt MM basses could easily have the same problem. It's an easy thing to check / repair