Fender Deluxe Molded Case Hinge Problems

[Corbusier]

I have a Fender American Professional Jazz Bass. It came with the Deluxe Molded Case. Instrument and case are about two and a half years old.
I haven’t mistreated the case, but as bomb proof as the case and latches may be, the paper thin hinges (probably worth about $.50 each) have bent out of shape over time. The case doesn’t close/seal properly. One of the latches won’t any more. I’m carrying an $1,800 instrument around in an extremely deficient case.

Has anyone else had this problem?
Will Fender fix this or send me some more cheap hinges?
Has anyone got a long term solution (because I don’t believe Fender hinges are the solution)?

 

[Geri O]

I have a Fender American Professional Jazz Bass. It came with the Deluxe Molded Case. Instrument and case are about two and a half years old.
I haven’t mistreated the case, but as bomb proof as the case and latches may be, the paper thin hinges (probably worth about $.50 each) have bent out of shape over time. The case doesn’t close/seal properly. One of the latches won’t any more. I’m carrying an $1,800 instrument around in an extremely deficient case.

Has anyone else had this problem?
Will Fender fix this or send me some more cheap hinges?
Has anyone got a long term solution (because I don’t believe Fender hinges are the solution)?

Not likely Fender will fix this at that age.

I’ve had good luck going to a music store that repairs band instruments. The B&OI repair department usually carries case hinges and latches because of common and frequent need, what with kids carrying these cases around.

An aside note, just FYI…I’m carrying 4-& 5-thousand dollar basses around in soft-shell cases that are very well-equipped and durable. I use the Protec Contega cases ($180) and also a Mono Dual bass case. They serve me well. No damage or failed parts so far.