mandolin center seam repair

[dan in va]

Every now and then a mandolin that suits me pops up but i've always given it a pass if it had a center seam that separated and had been repaired. Can this repair be the real deal cure, or will there always be a chance of recurrence?

[Tavy]

Yes to both.

If you're talking about a 100 year old mando, then centre seem separation is pretty common, so frankly I wouldn't worry too much as long as the repair has been well done.

[William Smith]

I've had em and have don't much bother me as long as they have the sound!

[AlanN]

My old F-5 had a minor center seam issue. Charlie D. he said it needed attention; Steve G. said don't worry about it. So, two informed, yet differing opinions. If it's a slight seam sep, no worries; particularly if it's ~ 100 years old - it ain't going nowhere.

[HoGo]

All depends why the center seam is failing. It could be the "death crack" under tailpiece or result of one humidity swing... Also depends what glue was used originally and what for repair.
I personally would stay away from such instrument, I've handled enough mandolind and 8 out of 10 separations were sign of nearing collapse (maybe 5-10 years from now, but signs were there), perhaps I would make an exception for a "player" grade instrument that would get beaten anyway...

[dan in va]

It's a top center seam separation that appears to run between the bridge and tailpiece. It was repaired by a reputable luthier with glue and spruce diamonds. The pic isn't real close up but looks good.

HoGo, i sent you a PM. i've decided to pass, so there's no worry about influencing my decision.