Overhauling an RCE PJ Bass - Part 5

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Part 5 - October 2 Update

We'll begin this update with a report on tuning machine replacement. I managed to source a set of used tuning machines that were a perfect fit save for screw hole location. Two holes per tuning machine, to be exact. So, it was simply a matter of plugging the holes in question, leveling the plugs, drilling new screw holes, and installing the replacement tuning machines.

Plugging Existing Screw Holes

Marking Location of New Screw Holes

Drilling New Screw Holes

Tuning Machines Installed - Back

Tuning Machines Installed - Front

Now it was time to deal with the rest of the hardware. Servicing included abrading with a rotary tool buffing wheel and steel wool, as well as polishing with Autosol. Among the parts replaced were the intonation screws and springs, both strap buttons, both control knobs, and all pickguard screws.

Servicing the Pickups and Hardware

Bridge Plate Reinstalled

Bridge Fully Reinstalled

Replacement Strap Button - 1

Replacement Strap Button - 2

A few changes were also made to this RCE, electronics-wise. For starters, I got rid of those corroded height adjustment springs, replacing them with pickup height foam. And, as all eight pickup height adjustment screws were terribly rusty, they were also replaced.

Pickup Height Foam Installed

Pickups Reinstalled

Once the pickups had been reinstalled, the underside of the pickguard was partially shielded with a sheet of copper foil. It was now time to wire in replacement electronic components. These comprised two Alpha A250K pots, a poly 0.047uF tone cap, and an MIJ output jack.

Replacement Electronics Wired In

Pickguard Reinstalled