Delaminated fingerboard

[frode]

Today I finaly found a 4003 fireglo from 2006. But I noticed a crack between the fingerboard and neck. See picture. I have the same problem on my 4001 from 1975. Last year I almost bought a white 4003 from 1992, but I stopped the deal when I found the same problem on this one to. What is going on? Common problem?

[rickaddict]

Common problem, but not so common since the new truss rods appeared in '84. Happened a lot on the 4001's. "Guitar techs" would tighten up the rods, thinking that that's how you get rid of too much relief in the neck:

Not working...hmmm...I must need to tighten more...still more...and then... "SNAP!" ... "This damn guitar! Ricks are junk!!!"

I can't say I've seen a new 4003 coming apart there though. I wonder how someone managed that?

[jingle_jangle]

Common? Hard to say, although it often indicates some messing with the truss rods. Have you pulled the TRC to look at the ends?

There are a couple of ways to correct this, depending upon whether this has been cracked for awhile and allowed dirt and grunge to filter into the crack. If it's fresh and sharp, it can often be corrected by working glue into the crack and tightly clamping it. Not really a DIY proposition unless you own the clamps and can make a caul to curve around the back of the neck. Band clamps don't generally work well on these types of cracks.

The best, foolproof way to proceed, is to use a silicone strip fretboard heater to heat the glue (RIC uses Titebond to put the fretboards on) and then strip the board from the neck using a nice sharp putty knife slid into the glue joint to wedge the board off.

The mating surfaces of both board and neck are well-cleaned and roughed slightly and checked for flatness, and the board is glued back in place. Sounds easy, but it is not (again) a DIY proposition. It will require a bit of varnish and possible finish touch-up, too.

That's just an overview of what needs to be done. I just finished doing this on Mike Carr's bass, which is up for refinish this month...I unfortunately did not get pics of this; had I known this question would pop up, I would have, as this new format is great for photo essays!

Anyway, get it to a reliable pro for correction.

[frode]

Thanks.
I stopped both deals, so these basses are not mine But my 1975 got the same problem.