Gibson carved top sinkage problem!!!

[G7MOF]

I have a Gibson A model with a sunken top. Is this a repairable problem or do I just have to live with it?

[multidon]

I think you would get more and better responses if you would pose this question in the Builders and Repair section.

I have heard others say that sometimes the cause is a loose brace and re-glueing the brace solves the problem. If it is the oval hole type with just the one transverse brace that wouldn't do much though. Short of re-topping if you want to keep it original you have to add shims to the bottom of the bridge to compensate if you can't adjust it up enough or if it's not adjustable. I would be interested to see if you could ask the moderators to move this to Builders and Repair so we can see what the professionals say!

[MikeEdgerton]

Take a look at this (http://www.frets.com/FretsPages/Luthier/Technique/Mandolin/Structural/MandoTopSag/mandotopsag.html) article on Frank Ford's www.frets.com.

[G7MOF]

Take a look at this (http://www.frets.com/FretsPages/Luthier/Technique/Mandolin/Structural/MandoTopSag/mandotopsag.html) article on Frank Ford's www.frets.com.

Thanks for that info, I'll have a look at the bracing then work from there.

[trevor]

Try asking John Maddock, known as Tavy on this forum. He has completely rebuilt tops.