I was a bassist for a long time. I was frontman in a 3 piece w/no lead, so I had to kinda fill it up w/the bass. it was a challenge and kinda fullfilling I guess, but it was also a bitch! I never got to just sit back and groove, or get into the front more.....just couldn't find a good "bassist" to take over. now I play guitar n sing and dont "have to" have a bassist.............but I sure would like one!
I am a guitar player who has learned to play bass. I am currently trying to put a band together made up of guitarists (with a drummer, got him already) who are willing to share bass duties.
The way I see it, if you play lead guitar, then you're half way there. You already have the finger coordination, if you are a true lead guitarist, then you should already know your scales, the rest is just working out the style.
I would look for other guitarists who understand the problem and are willing to BE A TEAM PLAYER and share bass duties. Any guitarist who isn't doesn't belong in your band.
IMHO
Jeff