Converting a five string into a 10 string bass

[marc61]

I was advised by my respected friend and collegue Mr Geoff Hartwell to ask this here.

A friend is a budding luthier. She is willing to help me convert a 5 string bass into a 10 string. I have some ideas. like putting the octave tuners at the bottom so I don't have to redo the whole headstock. The stumbling block is the bridge. Any tips on manufacturing? What to use a a tailpiece? Saddles? etc. Even ideas what bass to construct this one. 

I'm aware Dean made a factory 10 a few years ago. Unfortunately I can't find one for sale. They were actually selling the leftover bridges until not too long ago. I missed out though. 

Thanks in advance for any tips

 

[marc61]

Also found a private builder on another site. He can and will do whatever. Waiting to hear back on more specifics. Amazing what a little research does. Even got me back in touch with my old bass teacher, Ken Smith. He can't make the bridge but it was nice to hear back from him.