I think right around '09 they went back to the thinner profile. Bill the HOG has a mapleglo and jetglo in stock now. I can stop by and check them out for you if you want.
Late 80's? The pickguard looks '80-'81. And congrats on the new bass, looks stunning.
never tried to date it by serial number. Nevr a huge ric guy. Had a early 70's 4001 and first few years of the 4003 sold both because i am an idiot.... I just assumed it was late 80's when i got it about 12 years ago off the feebay. back when rics were reasonable. think it was around 400 with HSC.new one was part of the talkbass MF frenzy a while ago. came out to $1060, waited about 6 -8 months.
I'd love to hear any reports about the change in neck profile. I would really like a faster neck than mine.Thanks for the heads up.