DJP ATL-1SB Better late than never ...

[Simon Barden]

Yes, water in the holes. Wax will normally stop it, but there are never any guarantees. Just had the same problem myself on a guitar body around the pot holes (that should have been well sealed at the edges with paint by now).

I'd get a very small drill bit and drill a small hole in the finish at the very end of each crack, which should stop the cracks expanding further, especially if they want to run out from under the neck plate.

I must say that none of my six Gibsons has ever showed any signs of finish cracking, but two of my Fender Strats had the ubiquitous lower pocket edge crack appear over time.

But a lovely smooth and very shiny finish. I feel your pain with the cracks.

[DJP]

Thats a good idea Simon. Thank you.
Will get my finest drill bit and try to put in put in a crack stopper. One crack might already be just at the edge of where the plate will go though, so it will need to be small and very carefully placed. The wood is drying out a bit now and the cracks definitely have much less relief / raised edges.

The only guitar I've had a crackle problem with was a Firebird I bought a few years back which started crazing near the pots after just a month ! When i wrote and queried it they told me it happens - changing temperature etc, and pointed out that some folks would like that relict look. Was not impressed initially - but you know - it is growing on me. The finish on my Strat however is pristine after 15+ years.