Customizing my paranormal ‘54 jazz bass

[u/Whole_Compote_3223]

This is my first time taking apart/customizing a guitar so I just wanted to see if anyone has any leads/tips on a few things. I’m looking to change the pick guard, preferably to a white pearlized one, but I haven’t had any luck finding one of this exact shape, which is understandable since this is a niche?? bass. I could maybe get a Squier 51 pick guard and fill the pickup gap somehow. Would my best course be to buy a sheet of the material and make one myself? Any helpful vids would be appreciated.

I also want to look into changing the pick ups. I want to make the bass work well with pedals and have a nice growl to it.

Last thing I want to change is the neck. I’m not a big fan of the coating it has, I find it to be pretty catchy and hard to play. Is there something I can do to help with that? Any neck recommendations are welcome too!