Neck question: Possible repair done?

[vstringbassist]

I have a bass that has a 12" dark line running along the back of the neck (middle) closer to the heal. At first glance it looked like a split but is not, although when I run my finger across the line, I can feel a slight difference at different points. I can see the darker part is on one side of the grain along the neck but I can't really see evidence of repair. Maybe the builder left it this way - just the darkening of that grain during sanding? Any thoughts? I have owned over 40 basses and never seen this before.

 

[vstringbassist]

Here is one more:

 

[Meatrus]

Looks like some colouration in the grain to me, either natural or where the grain has been filled with something dark accidentally. Pretty sure its not a crack/repair.

 

[WoodyG3]

It just looks like normal color variation in the wood to me.

 

[johnk_10]

it's called wood grain.

 

[vstringbassist]

it's called wood grain.

Ya, thanks, I know but I can feel the 'line' so I wasn't sure. It does look like a fault at first glance. I appreciate the info.

 

[johnk_10]

i can understand your concern, but don't worry about it. its definitely not a repair.

 

[svtb15]

Looks like wood grain. but also looks as if there is an oily seepage from inside.. Chances are I am 99% wrong on that.. But it almost looks from the photos presented that maybe there was a lubricant on the truss rod that seeped through to the back of the neck.. since the coloring only goes to the top side of the neck.. Just my stab in the dark.. You asked so thats my opinion..

 

[vstringbassist]

Thanks everyone - I am glad it is most likely not anything of concern. I appreciate all the responses.

Cheers from Ottawa!