1987 Bass 5

[Bass 5]

Hello everyone. I own a 1987 Bass 5 and was looking for an OEM bridge for it. I called PRS and spoke to someone in the parts department who basically said that PRS doesn't even have the specs or parts for it anymore and that maybe 3 or 4 people are still there who may even remember this model. I've searched the internet for a bridge with no luck and was wondering if anyone knows of a PRS parts dealer or if not a suitable replacement. I'd like to keep it original but it's not necessary as I have no plans to sell the bass. Any guidance or input is really appreciated. Thanks!

 

[shinksma]

Check with John Mann, designer/manufacturer of many PRS bridge thingies:

http://www.mannmadeusa.com/

From the "About Us" page of the website:

MannMade USA designs, manufactures and sells world class guitar and bass bridges, hardware and components for OEM guitar companies

So that might be a good path to follow.

EDIT: the PRS Guitar Vault parts page (also John Mann) linked below doesn't seem to have any bass bridge parts, but contact them, who knows?

https://store.guitarvaultusa.com/Guitar_Bass_Parts_s/7012.htm

EDIT2: here is a link to a "Coming Soon" page on Bass Bridges. Empty for now, though, and who knows how old "coming soon" is...

http://www.mannmadeusa.com/products/bridges/bass-bridges/

 

[garrettb]

Hmm, that three-screw mount might be tricky to match. Something like a Bad Ass or Schaller could make a good replacement, but you'd have to drill new mounting holes.

What's wrong with the original bridge?

 

[Bass 5]

The plating is coming off in places and the brass is showing. I thought if removing it and having it replated and replacing the intonation springs. Depending on how long the plating would take I would just be concerned with leaving the bass with no strings on it.

 

[garrettb]

It happens. The nickel wears off. It's not a big deal because brass doesn't require plating, it just looks better with the plating.

If you decide to get it replated, don't worry. It'll be fine without the strings on it. You can loosen the truss rod if you're concerned about the neck.

 

[Egads]

Keep it as is, and love it some more!

Got any pics? I'd love to see it.

 

[John Mann]

I actually have quite a few of those original bridges. :biggrin:
Give me a call or send an email

John

603-488-1912
[email protected]

Check with John Mann, designer/manufacturer of many PRS bridge thingies:

http://www.mannmadeusa.com/

From the "About Us" page of the website:



So that might be a good path to follow.

EDIT: the PRS Guitar Vault parts page (also John Mann) linked below doesn't seem to have any bass bridge parts, but contact them, who knows?

https://store.guitarvaultusa.com/Guitar_Bass_Parts_s/7012.htm

EDIT2: here is a link to a "Coming Soon" page on Bass Bridges. Empty for now, though, and who knows how old "coming soon" is...

http://www.mannmadeusa.com/products/bridges/bass-bridges/