Rib crack repair?

Mr.Phil · #1 12-03-2007, 09:06 AM

I bought a Shen Willow 7/8 from Nick Lloyd back in August. Yesterday while I was unpacking it, I noticed a crack a little less than 2 inches long running vertical on the bottom rib of the "E" side. The crack runs pretty much down the middle of the rib. I thought it may have been a scratch, but shining a flashlight against it and looking in through the f holes confirmed my fear. I need the bass for some gigs and concerts until the end of this month. Should I worry about it spreading? I don't know how willow reacts to stress like this. Do you think the top will have to come off? Ballpark figure? Thanks!

Eric Hochberg · #2 12-03-2007, 11:15 AM

The crack can spread, so get it fixed. In my experience, it's a cheap repair, overnight. Rather than asking the forum, why not call Nick Lloyd for advice?

Mr.Phil · #3 12-03-2007, 11:37 AM

I most certainly will give him a call, but why not post in the forum as well? There are quite a few individuals here with specialized knowledge. Nick Lloyd is an excellent luthier, but it is unlikely that I will make it down into Ohio for repair. The drive time would not be cost effective. Anyway, I was just looking for a little advice from some of the seasoned pros here. A few opinions never hurt, right?

Eric Hochberg · #4 12-03-2007, 12:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr.Phil

I most certainly will give him a call, but why not post in the forum as well? There are quite a few individuals here with specialized knowledge. Nick Lloyd is an excellent luthier, but it is unlikely that I will make it down into Ohio for repair. The drive time would not be cost effective. Anyway, I was just looking for a little advice from some of the seasoned pros here. A few opinions never hurt, right?

I wasn't suggesting you have him do the repair, just get his expert advice as you've done business with him and I'm sure he'd be happy to discuss it with you.

arnoldschnitzer · #5 12-03-2007, 03:53 PM

I would not be overly concerned. Have the crack aligned and glued, and a small linen patch can be applied through the f-hole to keep it from opening again. Ballpark $60-120.

Mr.Phil · #6 12-03-2007, 07:38 PM

Thanks Arnold! Thats music to my ears.

Funky Larry · #7 12-04-2007, 12:15 PM

I would say not to worry too much about it. No biggie-quick fix up and you're back onstage. I wouldn't think it would cost much more than $100, if that. Good luck!

Funky Larry · #8 12-04-2007, 03:07 PM

Actually, come to think of it, just do it yourself. I did it with my Shen a few years back. It's not really that tough. Even if you have to take the top off, which I ended up having to do, it's a pretty easy procedure. I don't know how handy you are with repair work, but a little trial and error and you should be able to get it fixed up fine.

Best of Luck!

-Emma

Mr.Phil · #9 12-04-2007, 03:12 PM

Thanks Emma, but I think I'll leave this job to the professionals. I think I'll take it to Rochester and have them do the work. Thanks to everyone for the helpful reassuring replies.

Shmelbee · #10 01-27-2008, 10:57 AM

how would one go about repairing a rib crack (aligning it) without taking the top off?