neck "disconnected itself" in post

[DaRK_CaRNiVaL]

Hey all,

I recently posted a bass and the guy got it today. The only problem is that the neck is bent inwards at the body, the screws have come out, the holes where they were fit are slightly shredded and the screws will not re-screw. Now im just wondering what is the best option to fix the neck? It was a standard fender jazz type neck with the 4 screws.

I have heard people swear by the epoxy+matchstick (was it epoxy?) fill and then re-screw for the strap buttons. Luckily the item was insured so I am going to go to the post office but the guy wants to keep the neck as it is a nice one.

I am looking for DIY solutions, but its really up to the buyer whether they go to a Luthier or not.

Thanks

[62bass]

I've done it a few times and used a hardwood dowel and carpenter's glue, then re-drilled a pilot hole for the neck screws. Probably matchsticks would work as well but I like neatness. I used a 3/16" dowel and drilled a 3/16" hole for it with a good quality brad point bit. I never had a problem after that.

Of course you could go all out and use threaded inserts and bolts and really have a nice repair that would last forever and allow taking off and re-installing the neck as much as you want.

It shouldn't be an expensive job to have a competent repair guy fix it using dowels.