Fender 60s Jazzmaster Lacquer Bridge Question

[Unadan]

Just got my first ever JM - the 60s Lacquer Jazzmaster. It has the standard/vintage bridge with a 7.25" fretboard radius. I'm pretty certain I'm going to replace the bridge because during my very first band practice with this instrument - the strings were coming out of place out of the saddle slots and I lost a saddle height adjustment screw. I play pretty hard so I need something more sturdy. Is there any reason NOT to just get a Mustang bridge, drop it in, and be done with it? The only other bridge I like the looks of is the one by Staytrem - which is obviously based on the Mustang bridge. Thoughts?

[Larry Mal]

Your typical Mustang bridge that you can buy these days is a piece of junk, frankly. It'll be a lot better than the bridge you have, though.

StayTrem is basically what a Mustang bridge should be, it's a wonderfully made bridge, and if you can afford it, just get that and be done with it.

[Deed_Poll]

Testify!

[_nash]

If you can find a '65 of so Mustang bridge for a good price they're the best in my opinion. (there's a couple in the sale section now I believe) The saddles are forced together, I've never had a string jump and there aren't height screws to mess with.

[captdusty]

+1 for the Staytrem. I have one in each of my offsets. Their replacement collet and trem bar are also a worthy improvement.

[gypsyseven]

Go for the Staytrem! You won't regret it!

[_nash]

Staytrem bridges still have a narrower string spacing right? Something to consider.

[Larry Mal]

They do, but my understanding is that the StayTrem bridges adhere to vintage specs regarding the string spacing, that is, the newer ones get it wrong compared to vintage.

Or maybe I'd just find that easy to believe. I bought a couple of the Japanese made Mustang bridges, they're crap. Somewhat better and easier to use than the stock Jazzmaster bridge, but still just a very cheaply made bridge. From what I can see, Fender makes no real effort with these bridges.

[Johnny Alien]

First, I will agree that the Staytrem is the absolute best option that you can get for a Fender offset BUT

Go ahead and pick up a Mustang bridge. You ask if you have anything to lose and you don't. Make sure you get a new MIJ one without the gaps in the saddle. Pick one up used and if it doesn't work out sell if for little money loss and pick up a Staytrem. It is entirely possible that the Mustang will fix enough for you that the Staytrem is not needed. I usually tell people to try the stock bridge first (it works for lots of people) and then try the Mustang next. If you still aren't pleased, the Staytrem will for sure be the answer.

[Larry Mal]

I didn't know that there were Japanese made bridges without the gaps in the saddles?

[andy_tchp]

I didn't know that there were Japanese made bridges without the gaps in the saddles?

There are. Any of the genuine Fender Mustang bridges (part number 0035555000) I've used were made well and had no gaps between the saddles.

I had fantastic results with one on my CIJ Jazzmaster and the string spacing was perfect for that guitar. That exact same bridge did not suit my AVRI Jaguar, as the 'E' strings were pushed too close to the edges of the fretboard.

I had less luck with a generic/unbranded (possibly Allparts) one, as the saddles had gaps and moved all over the place with string bending, and didn't retain the strings any better than the stock bridge.

[Johnny Alien]

I didn't know that there were Japanese made bridges without the gaps in the saddles?

Yeah. I don't know when they made the change but I know the new bridges on the 65 reissues are gap free and really well made.

[Unadan]

Think I will try the 35555 Japan Fender bridge first. Thanks!

[Unadan]

Update - put the Fender Mustang bridge in - wow!!! Works like a charm - easy setup and the strings aren't going anywhere. Impressed!