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I need some advice guys...
I was just shaping and sanding the headstock on a ST-1 and what I thought was a machine mark has turned out to be a crack between the shoulder of the headstock and the low E tuner hole. At first I thought it must have happened when the tuner hole was being drilled, but it's only a hairline at that end, so it looks more like it started from the shoulder end. It doesn't really show up in the photos but there seems to be some factory glue at the end of the crack at the shoulder, but very little where the crack is most open (and that quickly sanded away). I'm just glad I found it now and not after the finish was on, or going on. Pics:
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-con...ck_crack_1.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-con...ck_crack_3.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-con...ck_crack_5.jpg
The tuner for the low E should 'clamp' that end of the crack somewhat, and the lateral forces from string tension won't really be applied directly to the crack line, so it should be more about closing the crack and making sure it doesn't come apart again. With care I can pry the crack open a fraction with the tip of a pin or thin blade, so my plan is to try to wick in some thin StewMac super glue along and in as much of the crack as possible and then clamp overnight. There will probably be a bit of glue bleed in the wood around the crack, but I don't see another option if I want to use a transparent Wudtone finish like Aged Vintage Yellow. Do you think the super glue will be enough (and be the best option), or should I consider taking more drastic action?
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Glue should be well and truly sufficient.
Here is a smashed headstock repair:
[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KkL_WxTZQgE[/embed]
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Wick the super glue into the crack, then get some Titebond and 120/180 grit waterproof sandpaper and then applying titebond or SuperGlue where the crack is, gently sand the crack area until the sanded material blends with the glue to become part of the crack filler. Titebond gives you a better lead time and working time whereas Super glue (stewmac 30) will dry faster. Both should work though.
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Nice video Stan. And thanks for the advice Gav, much appreciated. I've never dealt with a headstock crack before, so it's always good to get another opinion.
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Go with Gav - must admit - without his advice I'd be sunk...
