Looking for a Luthier - Central Florida

[Ed Allen]

Hello - I am looking for someone that could reset the neck on my Gibson B-25-12N with confidence. It is approximately a 1967 model with a trapeze tailpiece.

Here are some details –
1. A local luthier told me the neck is being pulled up by the string tension, and the bridge is collapsing into the top under the string pressure, but I haven’t been able to accept the latter assessment. To me, using a straight edge the top looks fine. The projected line of the fingerboard intersects well below the top of the bridge so when the saddle is set for a playable action, there is so little downward pressure from the strings on the saddle (remember it has a tailpiece), that one of the bass strings slips out of the saddle slot while playing. With this condition the instrument can’t be used to perform.

2. The top has a crack in it along the treble side of the fingerboard extension which has been very crudely patched. However, the body, the heel block and the neck itself all seem to be sound. I’ve looked into the body with a mirror and inspection light and don’t see any cracks or gaps.

I know this is not a very valuable instrument, but I love the sound and size of it, and would like to get it back into playable shape. I’m really not at all concerned with cosmetics, finish, etc.

So if anyone knows a luthier that could readily handle this job please let me know. I've been to two luthiers already. The first said it's not worth the repair cost, but I didn't get an estimate. The second said "no thanks".

Thanks – Ed

[Tim Mace]

gee... maybe you should get that neck reset.Tinkering via open discussion has failed.Good luck!I like the tailpiece
for 12 strings.Ledbelly style B25's have good voices too.Is the saddle adjustable up/dn.
Looks like one.Antonio will install a bridge doctor for ya!
jus'kiddin'