Advice: Tele Bigsby Retrofit

[Pale Rider]

I have a MIJ 62 RI that I think I'd like to put a Bigsby on-
could anyone offer advice as to which model Bigsby, installation and any other handy information on the upkeep of a Bigsby?
Thanks muchly.

[wedgehed]

There are several ways of going at it. (http://www.xs4all.nl/%7Emsengers/htm/gallery.htm)

I installed a B5 on my Squier Tele Thinline. I went with the method of using a vintage 3 saddle bridge/plate & notching the saddles (to maintain string spacing) & slotting the plate edge (to allow string clearance). On the bright side, I didn't have to shim the neck, which seems to be necessary with some of the other methods.

[studiodunn]

My method of choice also. Has a cool vintage vibe to it and allows you to take the bigsby off and still have a fully functional tele.........but mainly looks real cool.
There are several ways of going at it. (http://www.xs4all.nl/%7Emsengers/htm/gallery.htm)

I installed a B5 on my Squier Tele Thinline. I went with the method of using a vintage 3 saddle bridge/plate & notching the saddles (to maintain string spacing) & slotting the plate edge (to allow string clearance). On the bright side, I didn't have to shim the neck, which seems to be necessary with some of the other methods.

[sector9]

Like this?

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj132/sector999/brian_big.jpg

[lukeness]

Like this?

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj132/sector999/brian_big.jpg
Very nice. Where can I get a wammy bar like that?

[Pale Rider]

Thanks so much for the help-
Y'all rock!!!

[Ryguy]

I did the retro fit by sloting a standard three barrel bridge and love it. I have swapped in and out a few times and note no difference in tone. One thing I would point out thought is that the "F" stamped fender Bigsby's are slightly better for this than the standard b6. They dont have the nub at the top, so you can get it closer to the bridge, and therefore lose less over the bridge angle. Here is what I mean:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p173/rygalli/Photo373.jpg

[David Robrecht]

Great. Now you guys have me thinking about building a Thinline with a Bigsby. That website with all the Tele/Bigsby pics is great! Temptation thy name is Bigsby! :Devil

[wedgehed]

On the general subject of Teles & trems......

A guy on the HC EG Forum built this one.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y277/wedgehed/sgtele.jpg

I think that is one cool looking guitar.

[Pale Rider]

Any major preference between the F model of the B5/
Any great places to find either one?