Official Luthiers Forum!

I went to check out an "excellent" condition 1982 Ovation USA. I forget the model number. It sounded nice and was in excellent condition. BUT, taking a look down the neck revealed a slight 'bump' on the treble side from fret #14 on back, and only really affecting the B & e strings. What brought this to my attention was the fact that any note picked on the high E beyond the 9th fret was dead. So, I'm guessing the owner played cowboy chords and never noticed. Benefit of the doubt.

I passed on the purchase totally because I don't know how to address such a deficiency. Now that S.O.B. is haunting me. I like a good challenge.

I don't have pics - didn't bring a camera with me. Can anyone relate to what I've described, and offer solutions for repairing this sweetie for use beyond the first 9 frets? And any idea what causes this type of deformity?

Thanks!

_________________
TidewaterCustomShop.com (under construction)
Tidewater Custom-Shop Facebook Page

Depending on the severity of the bump a good fret leveling could take care of the problem. Not a big deal.

Or you might have to pull some/all the frets and level the finger board and refret.

Thanks. I kinda figured such a thing. Maybe if I pulled all/most of the frets and sanded the bump/hump? I may go back a look at it again.

_________________
TidewaterCustomShop.com (under construction)
Tidewater Custom-Shop Facebook Page

I'd try a level and crown before I pulled any frets. Of course the price of the guitar should reflect it's shortcomings.

_________________
Brian

You never know what you are capable of until you actually try.

https://www.howardguitarsdelaware.com/