Lyle

[Mattochan]

Check out this beauty I picked up today. It looks like the bridge is missing a saddle. I would like to repair it. Anyone have any idea of what it was made of originally?

Thanks
Matt

[Phizix]

Neat bass! I'm not sure how the bridge is attached in that rectangular indentation but it looks like maybe a metal bar in some of these other lyle sg pictures I found...

[VintAxe]

Hi Matt.

The person that lost the bar bridge for that bass has created a real problem. I see a couple of options.

You can replace the tailpiece bridge assembly with a new part. The downside of this is modifying your instrument, spending money on a bass that is probably worth only $200-$250 and finding a bridge with a narrow enough string spacing to fit the neck width. Most Japanese guitars were made for Japanese hands and tend to be narrower than US instruments. It is possible you might be able to adapt single string bridge saddles to create a bridge if you are mechanically inclined. The single string bridge saddle might offer you some string spacing adjustment a replacement tailpiece wouldn't have. Also, you could drill through you existing tailpiece plate to make the installation look more original Here are a couple of different versions of what I mean:




What you need is a saddle with a square bottom and a round top. You could probably fashion one out of an aluminum rod using a grinder or a file. Using a metal other than aluminum would be difficult unless you have the necessary metal shop tools.

This issue might look like a small problem but it is actually a big problem. Let us know your solution.

[Mattochan]

As a quick fix, I fashioned a saddle out of maple. I may go back and do one out of aluminum or brass later though. Not sure yet but I do have the ability and equipment to do most jobs.

Thanks
Matt

[VintAxe]

Good job Matt, wood is an excellent first choice. Metal will likely give you a bit more sustain but depending on your needs that may not be necessary.