Excellent idea! When I get the pieces together I'll go for light gauge strings to reduce the neck loading. I'm actually hoping that it pulls the neck forward just a little - it's pretty straight in its unloaded condition. I'll measure the ferrules and get strings and ferrule(s) ordered this weekend, I hope. Should be a nice change of pace from tearing out the shower stall in one bathroom....
Checking at Juststrings....
My favorite Labella Deep Talkin' Extra Light short scales are .039-.096, cost $43
but Rotosound has the RS77S Jazz Electric Bass Monel Flatwound Short Scale, .040-.090, $35
and GHS has the #3020 Precision Flatwound 30-31" Scale, .045-.095, Precision Flatwound, $24
I have a set of Rotosounds on one of my basses....and GHS on another. I keep forgetting which, but I like both. I think I'm pretty easy when it comes to strings. but I could try something radical and put rounds on it.
Naaaaah.