First time caller here...

[Jim Rogers]

OK. I can take a hint. I do know the difference between varnish and paint and trust me, I think the original owner was hoping the paint was going to hold it together. You could actually see the brush strokes that he applied the paint with. He actulally painted over the nails that he used to close the open gaps in the seams.

So, are you suggesting that I dig the 20 some odd nails out of the wood and remove the top? I don't know if the wood could handle the stress.

I was going to stain the fresh wood and then seal it with polyurethane.

Guess I am going to do some more research now. Thanks for your imput.

BTW what made you think that it was of german design?

[Greg Clinkingbeard]

Originally Posted by Jim Rogers

I was going to stain the fresh wood and then seal it with polyurethane.

I am not a luthier, nor do I play one on TB, but PLEEEEEEEEEEZ stop.
What you have could be a nice old German bass, IF restored properly.
Measure twice, cut once.

[Craig Regan]

Consider disassembling the bass and making the repairs as individual parts piece by piece. When all the parts are repaired, fit them back together dry (no glue) just to make sure everything will work.

Double bass restoration is a highly skilled craft, using tools and methods that are difficult to master.

Below is a link that may give you some ideas of proper bass repair techniques.

Be sure to check out the "German Full Restoration".

http://www.stringrepair.com/Double_B...tion_Setup.htm

http://www.stringrepair.com/Double_B...estoration.htm