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c_rollins21 - Posted - 01/05/2025: 19:40:51
Hey everyone, my '99 RB250 took a little tumble and developed a smallish crack close to the heel.
It's not deep at all, but I'm terrified of it running.
Should I release string tension or loosen the truss rod to prevent further damage?
Also, is this a difficult repair? What's an estimated cost for a repair like this?
I would greatly appreciate any help and advice. Thanks!
sunburst - Posted - 01/05/2025: 20:16:23
From the looks of the direction of the crack, the wood of the neck blank has a lot of grain run out and it shouldn't have been chosen for a neck. Should be under $100 to fix, and you should have it repaired as soon as you can.
randybartlett - Posted - 01/06/2025: 07:53:34
That is a bummer. Your idea of removing string tension is right. In fact, if you are comfortable, go ahead and remove the neck to take to someone good.
Edited by - randybartlett on 01/06/2025 07:54:37
Joel Hooks - Posted - 01/06/2025: 08:46:54
If I were a banjo repair person I would give away free banjo stands. That would secure plenty of work.
Sort of like a dentist giving away caramel candies.
Alvin Conder - Posted - 01/06/2025: 11:45:06
That needs to go to a luthier before it gets much worse.
I have done the same in the distant past. Its a hard lesson. That is why I always recommend that if an instrument is not in your hands, it is in its case. Even if you are stepping away for just a second.
Joel above pretty much nailed it. My luthier has told me the same almost word for word. Pretty much 1/2 his business, and he is a very busy person, is due to an instrument falling over or getting knocked out of its stand.
Fortunately for you, that is a common and simple repair.
