Gibson mandolin face repair needed.

[Will Baxter]

I have a 1950 Gibson F-12. The previous owner shaved the face to get “more projection”. As a result, the face under the bridge is sinking. There are also 2 parallel cracks about 1 1/2” apart and 4” long on the lower bass-side bout. The cracks separate when the strings are tightened. I was able to use light-gauge strings for awhile, but no longer. It looks like someone cleated a line between the cracks. I’m not sure it can be repaired; It may require a new face. Any suggestions? Or recommendations for a GOOD repairman? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Bill McCall]

Where are you located?

[Will Baxter]

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Where are you located?

[Will Baxter]

Hot Springs, Arkansas

[rcc56]

A picture might help us to assess the damage, but . . .
If the top has been thinned by an amateur, it sounds like it might be a possible candidate for a new top.

You might want to consult a builder. Pava Knezevic at the Ellis workshop in Austin comes to mind.

[HoGo]

If the top is toast then Randy Wood is your man. He's got tons of experience in replacing tops like this and folks talk about his quality work and good pricing...

[Will Baxter]

Thank you! Do you know how I can contact him?

[Will Baxter]

Thank you! I’ll post pictures when I get home.

[rcc56]

Randy Wood has a website and is still active. His website is randywoodmusic.com. He is near Savannah, GA.

[Will Baxter]

Randy Wood has a website and is still active. His website is randywoodmusic.com. He is near Savannah, GA.

Thanks much!

[Br1ck]

Jerry Rosa has a video you should watch where he put a new top on a Kentucky. He doesn’t take mail ins because he’s backed up, but won’t turn away walk ins. He’s in Missouri, and goes to jams in Arkansas, so it might be feasible. But watching the video will give you a good idea of the scope of the project.

[Will Baxter]

Thank you, Brick. I’ll look for it.

[Bernie Daniel]

Jerry Rosa has a video you should watch where he put a new top on a Kentucky. He doesn’t take mail ins because he’s backed up, but won’t turn away walk ins. He’s in Missouri, and goes to jams in Arkansas, so it might be feasible. But watching the video will give you a good idea of the scope of the project.

Actually, I think that is no longer true. Jerry put out a new video last week he has over 60 instruments in his shop now and a huge waiting list that goes back two years. In addition he has three F-style mandolins that he has been commissioned to build. In fact that is tho only new business he is accepting now -- new builds. So I think he is done taking new repair jobs period for now? He was very apologetic bout it but the guy has to have a life. Too bad he is a genius at fixing things up.

[Will Baxter]

Thanks, Brick. I guess that’s what happens when you are a true craftsman.