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Post by capejoe on Dec 15, 2009 15:23:56 GMT -5
Looking for some advice on a bellying bridge. I have a 13 year old acoustic that has bellying behind the bridge. I have heard that some bellying is not a problem and fairly normal. My question is how much is OK and when does it start to be a real problem.
If I laid a straightedge across the lower bout paralell to the bridge and balanced it so the gap between the straightedge and the top at each edge was equal, what would be an acceptable amount?
And if it is a problem, is there anything that can be done to correct it?
Thanks in advance for any advice!
Joe
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Post by rickc on Dec 15, 2009 17:39:44 GMT -5
Hey Joe, where you going with that gun in your hand ;D
It's actually not a question of what's acceptable, If the bridge is stable and the top is bellying this would most likely raise the action on the guitar making it difficult to play, there are only a few things that could remedy this, one is a pretty expensive neck reset if even possible, the other is a device called a Bridge Doctor made by JLD, it's completely reversable and can achive very good result at a reasonable cost. I just installed one in an old Gibson and the customer was extremely pleased with the result.
Bring it on down to Re-tune and we'll take a look at it.
Rick
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Post by Blues Dues on Dec 16, 2009 10:13:19 GMT -5
Hey Joe, where you going with that gun in your hand ;D It's actually not a question of what's acceptable, If the bridge is stable and the top is bellying this would most likely raise the action on the guitar making it difficult to play, there are only a few things that could remedy this, one is a pretty expensive neck reset if even possible, the other is a device called a Bridge Doctor made by JLD, it's completely reversable and can achive very good result at a reasonable cost. I just installed one in an old Gibson and the customer was extremely pleased with the result. Bring it on down to Re-tune and we'll take a look at it. Rick I can certainly concur with what Rick suggested. I saw the guitar before and after he installed the Bridge Doctor. It is amazing. The owner couldn't have been more pleased with the results. Blues Dues |
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Post by chuckochs on Mar 28, 2013 10:48:38 GMT -5
All depends. You didn't tell us what make this guitar is. Is the top plywood or solid? If the action is low enough (or can be lowered with saddle / nut work) than leave it alone. Eventually, you will run out of "adjustment room" and more drastic surgery will be required. Some will cure with a neck reset, but this is drastic, and if the joint it tight I would suggest a belly reduction. This is akin to witchcraft, and few repair people have the skill to perform this operation. I have done several, and have no fear! Call Chuck @ 508-456-4166 to discuss, if you want.
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