USED FENDER USA / 1976 Mustang—Refinished & Modified [03]

We’ve just received a used 1976 Fender Mustang featuring transitional-era specifications!

The 1970s marked a period when Fender, under CBS ownership, implemented various changes to its production processes and component specifications. The Mustang was no exception, with subtle details—such as the location and format of the serial number, the pickguard, and the tuning pegs—evolving over time. This particular guitar is believed to date from the transitional period between these specification changes.

The serial number is located on the neck plate, the headstock features the older “MUSTANG” logo, and the pickguard is a white 3-ply design. On the other hand, the tuning machines are equipped with the metal knobs typically found on later models. This combination retains the characteristics of the early models while transitioning toward the later specifications.

The neck date code is an 8-digit number, with the last four digits being “0864.” Interpreting this as the 8th week of 1976, on a Thursday, suggests it was manufactured in the first half of 1976. A 1976 CTS date code is also visible on the pots, providing a clue for determining the age of each component.Furthermore, a nylon cushion is fitted beneath the neck plate. Including these details, this is an intriguing example for understanding the specifications found in mid-1970s Fender products. The fact that characteristics do not shift abruptly from one era to the next, but rather that different specifications coexist, is one of the charms of vintage Fender. This is a Mustang where you can enjoy the details unique to this transitional period!

Condition:
The body has been refinished, and the official color name is unknown. It features a subtle blue hue—reminiscent of Olympic White with a strong blue tint, or perhaps a faded Sonic Blue that has lightened over time.

Although the specifics of the refinish are unknown, the appearance of the paint layer suggests it was applied quite some time ago. Since it’s a solid-color finish, the wood grain isn’t visible, making it difficult to identify the wood species. However, the wood visible through small chips in the paint has a brownish tint, so it’s possible it’s alder. The frets and nut have been replaced.

The pickups have been replaced with Lace Sensors—a red one in the bridge position and a gold one in the neck position. The wiring has also been modified. While this guitar no longer retains its original specifications, the combination of pickups and modifications to the electronics have resulted in a unique, custom-tuned instrument.

The headstock shows discoloration from severe sun exposure, along with dents and several small scratches. The fingerboard has a few indentations caused by fingering. The entire body also shows discoloration from sun exposure, as well as signs of wear from use, including dents, scuffs, and small chips in the finish.Part of the pickguard has been shaved down to facilitate truss rod adjustment. Additionally, the tailpiece and bridge saddles show signs of plating wear and rust, and other metal parts exhibit tarnish and rust.

Condition Grade: B+: Some minor scratches, but no issues for normal use

Serial Number: 636780
Year of Manufacture: 1976
Country of Manufacture: United States
Case: Non-original gig bag
Accessories: Arm (believed to be genuine)
Weight: 4.08 kg
Truss Rod: Note: The truss rod is completely loose; currently, there are no issues with the neck
Fret Wear: Note: While the frets can still be filed down, they are on the low side
String Height (Low-String Side): 2.1 mm at the 12th fret
String action (treble side): 12th fret, 1.6 mm
Nut width: 41.0 mm
Neck thickness near the 1st fret: 22.4 mm
Neck thickness near the 12th fret: 23.2 mm
Scale: 610 mm (24")
Radius: 184 mm (7.25")
Strings at Setup: ERNIE BALL 2221 / .010-.046 set
Modifications: Refinish, 2 pickups, wiring, refretting, nut, several screws
Repair and Maintenance: Cleaning, string replacement, truss rod adjustment, octave adjustment, action adjustment, fretting, wiring correction
Other: Pickups are Lace Sensor Red (Rear) / Gold (Front)

* As this is a used item, there may be scratches, dents, and other imperfections that are not clearly visible in the photos or not listed here. Please be aware of this in advance.

* Any listed measurements regarding the truss rod, remaining fret life, or string height were taken by our staff during setup and are subject to change due to environmental factors such as climate and humidity.
These measurements are intended as a reference at the time of purchase; we cannot guarantee that the values will be identical when the item arrives.

* This is a one-of-a-kind item that is listed simultaneously on multiple marketplaces, including our in-store display. We strive to promptly remove product listings once an item is sold, but updates may not always be in real time.
We sincerely apologize if the item happens to be sold out after you place your order, and we ask for your understanding.