bass bridge crack

[Paul Plumb]

Dear Chunping,

We replace lots of old bass bridges that are badly cracked.  When we do,
though, we try our best to make the new bridge EXACTLY like the old one (we
usually use delignit material, though).  Then we make sure that the surface
on the soundboard does not have any rough areas (sand smooth if needed) and
then glue the bridge back exactly to where it was taken off.  Before gluing
it back on we drill usually 3 or 4 holes in the bridge  so that we can make
sure the glue joint is good and solid.  You can take the screws out when it
is dry - or leave them in for added security.  Countersink the holes so
that the top of the screw is slightly below the top of the new bridge.

We don't consider ourselves in the category of those who can redesign
bridges or speaking lengths yet - so until then we try hard to replace
things exactly where they were when they were built.

Regards,

Paul Plumb, B.Mus., 
Plumb Pianos