Repair And Restoration
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Replacing Nylon Saddles on a Gibson SB-400 bass
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Replacing Nylon Saddles on a Gibson SB-400 bass
I need some advice on replacing some saddles.
I have been restoring a “dumpster dive” 1972 Gibson SB-400 bass, with a Multiplex bridge. It has nylon saddles, one of which has a crack. The screws upon which the saddles ride are not removable, as the end has an enlarged cap (see picture).
How do I replace the saddles without destroying the screws?
I repaired the cracking nylon saddle by supergluing two layers of fiberglass wrap (used for fingernails) to the front of the saddle (see picture). This may, or may not, work.
Thanks in advance for suggestions.
Cheers,
Elaine
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4 Replies
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On option would be to drill out those screws and replace them with new saddles and uncapped screws with a spring in between the saddle and the bridge. Like this….
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I had a discussion with Joel Wilkens about the nylon gibson used for nuts and saddles and he had concluded that modern nylon formulations were not as tough. He recommended using 20-30% “glass filled” nylon to make replacements. McMaster has sheets of 30% GF Nylon if you decide to go that route.
https://www.mcmaster.com/1473T11/
mcmaster.com
McMaster-Carr is the complete source for your plant with over 595,000 products. 98% of products ordered ship from stock and deliver same or next day.
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Thank you!
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Thanks! Yes, I had concluded that the bolts would need to be cut, removed, and replaced.
For the time being, the repair I made with the fiberglass wrap and superglue is holding on the G string saddle, and the other saddles are pristine. I will send the bass out into the world, and address the issue if it returns.
Cheers,
Elaine
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