Please help before I destroy my bass!

cmarkmcm · #1 07-28-2009, 08:33 PM

I took off the strings to replace them, and found that the bridge has developed a curve, as the bridge collapsed when I took too much uneven tension off each string...I never noticed it before, but it is extremely difficult to tighten the new strings up, as the bridge keeps collapsing, as I am trying to keep the tension even. Is the bridge suppose to have a curve, or is it suppose to stand at 90 degrees?

Thanks in advance!

dmusic148 · #2 07-28-2009, 08:39 PM

First, never take all the strings off at once, because the sound post could fall. If that didn't happen, OK. Next, lightly tension the strings with the bridge leaning slightly toward the tailpiece, then tune up. The bridge will stand up as you do so. It may take a couple of tries to get it right, but it should stand straight up.

1st Bass · #3 07-29-2009, 03:57 AM

I don't suppose that, when it fell, you happened to turn the bridge over? The flat side goes toward the tailpiece--low edge toward the G string. If that is the curve you are talking about...

Just a thought.

cmarkmcm · #4 07-29-2009, 06:24 AM

I know not to remove all the strings at once. I had theg loosened to replace each one at a time, but the bridge must have been a bit off balance, as it buckeled uder the pressure. Luckily the soundpost didnt move.
Simple physics would tell me that the flat side of the bridge should stand at a 90 degree angle, but mine does not. I just wanted to clairify if it should, as that would mean that it is warped, and should be replaced.

Cody Sisk · #5 07-29-2009, 08:36 AM

You mentioned that your bridge has "developed" a curve. That sounds to me like it's warping towards the fingerboard. If this is the case, it will be very difficult getting it to stand up under the string tension. It might be time for a new bridge.

cmarkmcm · #6 07-31-2009, 04:36 PM

...As I look at it more closley, idget is warping toward the bridge., and the "legs" look a bit twisted...I think it looks like it is time of a new bridge...or can it be warped back inshape?, as apparently I have put it on backwards...

Cody Sisk · #7 07-31-2009, 06:37 PM

A bridge can be bent back to shape with heat or by boiling them and clamping them down flat as they dry. This is a temporary solution at best though because it will make the bridge more flemsy and it will warp quicker the second time around.

This is another reason to have your bass checked by a luthier on a regular basis. Or you could periodically make sure the bridge is straight yourself. By periodically pushing it back towards the tailpiece, you can eliminate bridge warping. (only if it's a quality bridge cut well of course) Soundposts can also shimmy or get knocked slightly off the sweet spot too over time. If a soundpost is left up and crooked for a period of time, it can even put a dent on the inside of the top or back.

String tension, weather and regular playing makes these issues an unfortunate reality. Keep a close eye on things and get your instrument to a luthier regularly whether it needs work or not. Repositioning a bridge and knocking around a soundpost should be cheap if not free.