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Post new topic ‘38 Ric Model 59 Refurb Questions?
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Author Topic:  ‘38 Ric Model 59 Refurb Questions?
James Knox


From:
Phoenix, Arizona, USA
Post  Posted 24 May 2024 2:59 pm    
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Just snagged a cool Rickenbacher Model 59 in Ivory. Was really dirty, so I got it cleaned up nice. The single “rheostrat” pot was frozen so I removed it and cleaned and lubed it with CAIG PreservIT P5. Tuners disassembled and lubed and holding tight. It came strung with under~arm guitar strings so I upgraded to a SIT C6 set.

This is my first metal body Ric experience. I owned and played a B6 for awhile and know of the musical magic they make. This wide horseshoe magnet PU is very strong and sounds great! I am liking it.

2 Questions:

1. Any tips on converting the 2 lug rheostat to a normal 3 lug pot?

2. The raised fret lines are difficult to see on the wrinkle paint. Paint the tops? File off the paint on the fret?


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Jeff Highland

 

From:
New South Wales, Australia
Post  Posted 24 May 2024 7:44 pm    
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https://www.horseshoemagnets.net/home/rickenbacher/wiring-schemes
You can just use the "modern" wiring scheme without the tone pot
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David Venzke


From:
SE Michigan, USA
Post  Posted 24 May 2024 10:34 pm     Re: ‘38 Ric Model 59 Refurb Questions?
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James Knox wrote:
The raised fret lines are difficult to see on the wrinkle paint. Paint the tops? File off the paint on the fret?

I would think about using automotive pinstripe tape ... easily undone later.
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Jack Hanson


From:
San Luis Valley, USA
Post  Posted 25 May 2024 5:56 am    
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If that Ric was mine -- and since the pot apparently needs replacement anyhow -- I would consider installing a dual concentric pot for the added advantage of acquiring a tone control. I would also concur with Dave on the pinstriping tape; a win/win solution.
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Joe Cook


From:
Lake Osoyoos, WA
Post  Posted 25 May 2024 2:09 pm    
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Such great tone from those metal body Rickenbachers. I have a NS that has invisible fret markers as well. Great suggestion on the pinstripe tape. Congrats on your Model 59, James!
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James Knox


From:
Phoenix, Arizona, USA
Post  Posted 26 May 2024 7:04 pm    
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Hey guys, thank you for your thoughtful replies!

I have ordered the automotive pinstripe material and have decided to keep the wiring as it is. I actually kind of like the way the trebles are rolled off as you back off the volume. I'm no longer gigging and it will just be for my enjoyment.

Peace,
James
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