Hot Rails / Player Tele fit issue

[DavidM1]

I have just modded a 2019 MIM Player series tele with SD ‘59 neck pickup and Hot Rails for Tele in the bridge. Everything went together very easily except the fit of the hot rails.

The first pickup wouldn’t go close for fit - the top plates were almost the same size as the bridge opening with no clearance for the windings and tape. SD support were quick to send a warranty replacement, which was good of them. That pickup was closer but still too tight to fit through the opening because of the lack of clearance. It seemed the only solution was to file the bridge opening. The pickup now fits and is fine but I’m not that impressed with my amateurish filing...

Does anyone know of a good replacement 6 saddle bridge that will definitely fit a Hot Rails for Tele? Does the Fender vintage one work or perhaps the G&L? Perhaps older MIM Standard?

Thanks!

 

[Mincer]

Re: Hot Rails / Player Tele fit issue

Welcome to the forum!

I believe I've read on here that people just wind up filing the bridge a little bit. If you went slow, it should be just fine. I'd love to hear your opinions on those pickups in a Tele!

 

[DavidM1]

Re: Hot Rails / Player Tele fit issue

I see! I think with a vice and a choice of files that could work ok. Unfortunately, I just had a kitchen bench and a file from a car parts place so it’s actually a little rougher than I’d like. I guess I could buy another and have another go but it would be so good to find a bridge that doesn’t need it.