Replacing tailpiece--Help please

[planoman]

When tuning my Mid-Mo M4 the other day the string popped. It broke the little tab on the tailpiece that the string hooks on to. So I guess it's time to replace the tailpiece. I have a couple of questions:
1. Will upgrading the tailpiece improve the sound, and if so, what suggestions would you have?
2. Can I replace the tailpiece myself? There are 3 little screws that hold it on. Is it safe to unscrew these and then replace the tailpiece. Are the holes in tailpieces all in a standard configuration?

Thanks for your help
Andrew Block

[sunburst]

1. A matter of opinion. I wouldn't expect much change in sound.

2. Yes you can replace it yourself. No, the holes are not in a standard position. By that I mean that some tailpieces will not fit, but some will. Check to make sure that the one you get will fit standard Gibson spacing if that's what you have. (It probably is.)

In the interest of full disclosure, I'll mention that I make and sell mandolin tailpieces, so I wont recomend any particular tailpiece.

[Steve L]

I would get a hold of Mike Dulak at Mid Mo...they'll probably be glad to get a tailpiece for you and you won't have to worry about the fit.

[planoman]

Thanks a lot for the suggestions. I will call Mike.

Andrew

[bluegrassjack2]

If u decide to replace and it dont fit the same holes, I've had luck with filling the old hole (0r holes) with round toothpick and glueing it in and cutting it off for an even fit. then drilling any new holes u need.