bridge problem

[Wimblees]

In a message dated 98-05-02 11:42:39 EDT, you write:

<< is that one would have to remove strings, clamp and glue the
 bridge, then redrill and replace pins. In the process, replacing the bass
 strings would seem obvious since the labor required wouldn't be that much
 more.
 	Opinions, please.
 	Appreciatively, >>


Leslie:

To repair a bass bridge is not too difficult. 
1. Loosen the tension on the bass strings, and remove them from the hitch
pins. 2. Remove the bridge pins in the area that is cracked. remove any loose
wood. ( put the bridge pins in a ash tray, or cup). 
2. Use an epoxy called PC7, avaiable at most hardware stores. I like to use
this stuff because it takes about 2 hours to set up. This gives you plenty of
time to work with it. It is a heavy thick paste, with the consistency of tar. 
3. Put some of the PC7 in the crack, and then partially clamp the bridge, so
that you can put in the bridge pins. 
4. Take each pin, and dip it in the PC7, so that a little is on the end of the
pin, and put the pin the hole. If you can't figure out where the hole is
supposed to be, guess. Do this for all the bridge pins. 
5. Using a small screwdriver, or awl, remove excess PC7 from around the pins,
especially where the string will be in contact with the bridge pin. 
6. Let then epoxy set up for at least 24 hours, although 2 or 3 days would be
better. 7. Before putting the bass strings back on, check to see if there is
any excess epoxy on the bridge that needs to be removed. You can file that
off. 
8. Put the strings bak on,  and tune. 

Good luck

Willem Blees  RPT
St. Louis