(Posted this a few days ago, but apparently it didn't stick. If I've missed something, I apologize, as I am new to the forum...)
A few years ago, while visiting a friend, he showed me his '73 Rick 480 that had gone through Hurricane Katrina. As it was essentially coming apart and he wasn't doing anything to protect it (it was in his shed, by an open window), he gave it to me. After thinking about it for a while, I've decided to try a "sympathetic restoration," e.g., clean up what I can, replace what I can't. Basically, that means complete new electronics, bridge, maybe tuners, but a buff and shine of most everything else.
One thing has me stumped. The truss rods are missing. It is my understanding that early 480s used the "hairpin" truss rods, but these are vanishingly hard to locate. My question is: can the later style truss rods be used (will they fit)? Or, absent that possibility, could I substitute an appropriately sized threaded rod, secured at each end by aluminum stock?
Photos:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/72thh9drj8u6jU39AAny and all recommendations are welcomed. Thanks!
