Vintage Saddle Height Adjustment Screw Replacements

[bassman08]

Hello,

I have an early 80's Stingray toploader style bridge (one of the types with the mute pads) and I have one saddle height adjustment screw that simply won't turn anymore. I think I can get it out (once with pliers), but I know it will be mangled by the time I'm done. I'd like to use the original true musicman part if possible, but will settle for a part made of the same material and to the same specifications. I need just one saddle screw, but I would also be willing to purchase one whole new saddle. Does anyone out their know where I could find such a specialized part?

Also, if anyone has any thoughts on how to get it to turn again, that would be appreciated as well.

Thank you.

 

[maddog]

I would try customer service first. They may have exactly what you are looking for.

1-800-543-2255

also, have you tried soaking the screw in some 3-in1 oil or the like? Just a drop on the top and let it sit overnight might be another avenue.

 

[Caca de Kick]

You could see if EB even still has that style screw.
If it were me, I would remove the saddle and let it soak for a couple days in penetrating oil.

 

[Kirby]

I had the very same thing happen to an old Jackson USA bass I was working on for a friend. The soaking overnight in penetrating oil works well. That is what I would try first. When you reassemble make sure to have the screws coated lightly with a drop of lubricant to prevent this again.

 

[Rod Trussbroken]

Hello,

I have an early 80's Stingray toploader style bridge (one of the types with the mute pads) and I have one saddle height adjustment screw that simply won't turn anymore. I think I can get it out (once with pliers), but I know it will be mangled by the time I'm done. I'd like to use the original true musicman part if possible, but will settle for a part made of the same material and to the same specifications. I need just one saddle screw, but I would also be willing to purchase one whole new saddle. Does anyone out their know where I could find such a specialized part?

Also, if anyone has any thoughts on how to get it to turn again, that would be appreciated as well.

Thank you.

If the saddles are hollow, then the screw wont exit from the top of the saddle...only the bottom.

I'm guessing you're trying to lower the saddle???...perhaps for the G string? If so, the adjustment screw has most likely hit it's upper limit of adjustment inside the saddle.

 

[Musicman Nut]

Hello,

I have an early 80's Stingray toploader style bridge (one of the types with the mute pads) and I have one saddle height adjustment screw that simply won't turn anymore. I think I can get it out (once with pliers), but I know it will be mangled by the time I'm done. I'd like to use the original true musicman part if possible, but will settle for a part made of the same material and to the same specifications. I need just one saddle screw, but I would also be willing to purchase one whole new saddle. Does anyone out their know where I could find such a specialized part?

Also, if anyone has any thoughts on how to get it to turn again, that would be appreciated as well.

Thank you.

Very easy if you are in the USA, Orchard Supply Hardware has them, I buy them there all the time, like Gav said they do need to enter from the bottom.

 

[bassman08]

Thank you. I'm actually trying to screw it down out of the bottom (heighten the saddle).

Musicman Nut, when you say "Orchard Supply Hardware has them", do you mean the screw or the penetrating oil? I've never been able to find saddle screws at my local Orchard, but I'll push them on it if I think they can get them in.

 

[PocketGroove82]

EBMM sent me a full complement of saddle screws for my 1997 ray.
All I had to do was ask!
Also, I got some nice swag...EBMM stickers and such!
Customer Service is so cool

 

[bassman08]

Now what??

Okay, tried the penetrating oil and that didn't work. Also tried to get a good handle on the bottom of the screw with pliers and vice grips and can't get it. Tried many different size allen wrenches from the top and I think the screwhead is stripped (but only just enough not to work).

Called Ernie Ball customer service and explained exactly what saddles I had and asked to order a replacement. They said they had them in stock, but I had to buy an entire set of four. Got them today and they are not the hollow vintage saddles, but the new style. Also, the grooves on the saddles for the strings do not line up the same way the old ones do. I think they'll work, but the saddles and long bolts will be crooked in the bridge. Lastly the screws are slightly smaller than the vintage screws and the thread is slightly different, so I don't think I can use the new screws in my old saddle (even if I was lucky enough to free the stuck screw).

Questions for the forum: 1. Can anyone think of any other ways to free the screw without ruining the saddle? 2. Did I just get a hold of someone in customer service who didn't know what they were doing (and sent me the wrong ones) or does Ernie Ball even stock these vintage saddles anymore? 3. Does anyone have one extra vintage working saddle they would be willing to part with (willing to pay a small fee)? Any other suggestions (is there an Ernie Ball parts website or other source I can try)?

Thank you all for your help and input.

 

[Rod Trussbroken]

Check to make sure the string groove is central on the saddle. If so then you're ok whether hollow or solid.

There was an over-lapping period between the the two saddle types. So, even though you have solids, they can still be period-correct. What's the serial on your Bass?

If the grooves are offset to the left (slightly) then they'll be ok but not perfect. If they're to the extreme left you have probs.

Send a pic to customer service. Your Bass is going back some 20 years. If it's not on the shelf then there may be an old one out the back.

Other than that, take it to a fitter and turner and have him remove the screw and make a new one.


P.S. A saddle from the 2001 NAMM Bass will fit the bill.