Gibson J55 Top Crack Repair Advice

[RETROROD]

I just got in a '73 J55 with a  top

crack along the pickguard extending North and South of the soundhole. I think it can be glued and cleated fairly well, but I would like some advice please.

The treble edge of the soundboard has curled up about 1/8' from the rest of the top. It takes quite a bit of pressure to try and match the edges. Should I humidify some to relax the top before glueing and splinting?

The crack extends north beside the fingerboard and south along the pickguard almost to the bridge.

This is a "classic" Norlin Gibson. Double X-over-,braced example. Also their first year of the arched-back dreadnought..It also has the 'tortoise binding' which is starting to disenegrate....Jeesh!

 

I have taken many pics in the afternoon sunlight and will provide some for clarification.

Rod

[RETROROD]

Thanks Larry! I have gleened through it but I still had questions..?

[Andrew]

I'd let it dry at least 2 weeks before levelling and buffing (Frank doesnt give the exact time in his article). Put your nose up to the finish, and if you can still smell the solvents, its not ready yet. After that, test to see if it dents when you press your fingernail into it. Then level and buff a la FF's article. Not sure if there would be a huge difference in adhesion, but if the new lacquer shows around the edge, you want it shiny, as buffing right next to the guard would be a royal pain, and leave a line of compound peeking out around the edge of it.

[RETROROD]

Gotcha! Thanks much!