Stand-Up Bass: Repairing

Date: Mon, 27 Dec 2004 19:20:54 -0800 (PST)
Subject: refinishing an upright bass

I would like to strip and refinish my 1940's Kay bass. It is pretty beat up, with a lot of scratches. However I have been told by a repairperson not to touch it or the sound may suffer. I guess he should know, but this is a plywood, factory made bass, and I'm not sure he's right. Any suggestions? Thanks, John S.

Greetings John,

I'd keep it all original...the sound may still be affected even though it's a plywood bass. This is considered a vintage instrument today...and an intrusive refinish will definitely affect its value.

Mickey

Date: Fri, 19 Jul 2002 14:59:54 -0700

Hello,

I'm wondering if you might be able to give some information on how to
maintain my upright bass when the seals begin to open due to the humidity,
causing rattling. In the past I've taken it to bass repair people who glue
it for 50 or 75 bucks, but I have to come back every year. Is there
maintenance I can do on a regular basis or in emergencies? Thanks very
much,

Aaron Kohen

Greetings Aaron,

I'm surprised that you're having to return for the same repair...with a high-grade wood glue/hide glue you should not be encountering this separation. My only guess is that there's some other stress point pulling the bass at these particular seams. If so, you'll first want to see if you can off-set where the pull may be coming from...

Another consideration would be to keep your bass in an environmentally controlled setting...such as using humidifiers...

I hope this helps in some way...Mickey

--
Disclaimer: Folk of the Wood, or any of its staff, takes no responsibility for damages that concur from any suggestions or recommendations submitted by e-mail or by phone. It's the responsibility of the owner of an instrument to take precaution in every respect when trying something new or following someone else's recommendations. Always be extra careful about choosing the right products and cleaners for maintaining the integrity of your instrument. If you are in question about a particular product, be sure to consult the manufacturer of the product for any potential problems in application.