First time caller here...

[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