Rattling pickup

[Graham56]

Hi,

 

I play a late 60's P-Bass. It's scruffy, overweight, has been knocked about, it's a bit cranky but it does the job. Like it's owner...

 

I think the pickup is original but don't know for sure.

 

Over the last few months, my pickup has gradually become more, for want of a better word, 'sensitive'. It picks up every little tap and rattle, especially if my fingers catch it. Now it may be that my plucking technique has deteriorated, and I do pay more attention to how harshly I damp the strings, but I also think that this sensitivity is getting worse.

 

I'mm also getting a 'clack' from the pickup if I move the bass quickly or even tap it on the body.

 

I'm sure I remember a discussion about how an old pickup can 'dry out'. I can't find anything using the search feature, but does this sound likely here?

 

Cheers

 

Graham