Ive got a broken neck, or have I?

[jonnyburgo]

Got this for a song because of the break, its a 1996 Peerless Riviera. I restrung it, had a play and left it for a few days, the tuning is still perfect, any chance this could just be a laquer crack caused by stress, I thinking (Im thinking its might have been stood on?, there is no WOW when playing and it feels completely solid and plays beautifully. The bloke I bought it off said he doesnt know how it happened but its been like this for about 3 years.

So, If it is a proper neck crack, do I just leave it or get it sorted? I cant physically make the crack widen by bending the neck although i have tried.

Opinions gratefully received

One of the front just to show its inherent loveliness

[IMG][/IMG]

And one of that naughty crack

[IMG][/IMG]

[ICBM]

Definitely in the wood, and definitely get it sorted. At this point when it's fairly fresh and doesn't have dirt in it, it will be possible to soak some penetrating glue into it and make a really nice job without it costing a lot.

[jonnyburgo]

Thanks, hmm, any ballpark figure for that?

[ICBM]

Probably under £50 unless you want it to look completely invisible, which is the more tricky part. Is it a real keeper? If not I'd get it fixed to the best possible standard otherwise it will be hard to sell for a good price.

[jonnyburgo]

Is anything a keeper?

Well because of the break, this one will have to be, In fact I might have a bash at it myself, any good suppliers of Luthier glue that you know of? Stewmac the obvious one I guess.

[ICBM]

I would use cyanoacrylate/superglue! So would most luthiers nowadays. Be warned, it makes a mess of the finish so be prepared to have to do some light sanding and re-polishing - but be very careful not to go through the top layer of the finish, it's usually a darker tint and if you go through you'll leave unsightly pale patches.

Make sure you're thoroughly prepared with the clamp, soft clamping cauls and kitchen roll before you start as well, and do a 'dry run' with the clamp - it cures so quickly you don't have time to run around finding anything after you've put the glue in.