You know, James Jamerson was rumored to NEVER change the strings on his bass - and the rumor includes that he paid folks to wear in strings on their axes and give him the used ones. That's part of how he got the sound he did (technique and genius aside).

I think this is detailed in the Funk Brothers movie - which if you haven't yet seen - it's an absolute must if you even just enjoy Motown music. If you are a fan, then it's a take-home exam. Report here with your findings once you've seen it.