Crack Repair

[manthoney]

For you luthier types:

I recently came across a crack in the top (lower bout) that had been repaired with a cleat.  I did some research and it seems that this cleat was oversized-- about playing card size instead of nicely beveled, small, and diamond-shaped.  How much would this impede the vibration of the sitka top?  The crack runs straight down from the bridge to the bottom of the lower bout.  Also, is it possible to redo the repair or sand the cleat down to a smaller size?  

Thanks!  

[unclrob]

This is a job for a repairperson.The cleat is way to large and is holding the top back from vibrating.DON"T DO THIS YOURSELF.DANGER WILL ROBINSON DANGER.Bring it to pro.

[manthoney]

Thanks for the advice, Rob.  It is possible, though, for a luthier to replace the oversized cleat with a smaller one or sand it down?

[D4ve]

DANGER WILL ROBINSON DANGER.Bring it to pro.
UnclRob....now your dating yourself.
I used to watch that show all the time :)

Dave...oops I guess I'm dating myself too.

:P  :P  

[unclrob]

In some cases the cleat can be removed and you won't have to replace it.