Les
Paul finish
Q: Hi, My les Paul has a really
sticky neck, is there any way I can improve it, polished it to death,
should I sand it with wet/dry paper, keep my hands clean. Will it
get better with time.
Many thanks,
Liam
A: It is possible that, it being a Gibson, there is something chemically
wrong with the finish. If it is an old guitar the finish will not
improve with age. If it is a new guitar send it back. Replacing
the finish on that guitar, properly, would be very expensive. I
have seen old Gibson finishes get sticky when they get wet (for
example: when steaming the neck off or washing off excess glue).
If this is the case the finish could reharden as it dries. Your
problem could be a build up of polish that could be wiped off with
mineral spirits. Your problem could be your finish reacting with
plasticizers in polish or in vinyl guitar straps. Anything involving
wood is quick and logical. Anything involving finish tends toward
the mystical realm. You can mix your finish exactly the same way
every time and once in a while it will come out completely differently.
Try mineral spirits to remove non water soluble gunk and a damp
rag to remove water soluble gunk. Search your house for sticky toddlers
playing your guitar while you aren't looking. If that doesn't cure
it you will need professional help.
Steve Mason
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