Mandolin finish repair Loar lm-700

If you have a string instrument of any kind that needs fixing, a mistake you made in building a new instrument that you need to "disappear," or a question about the ethics of altering an older instrument, ask here. Please note that it will be much easier for us to help you decide on the best repair method if you post some pictures of the problem.
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Roger Hutson
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Joined: Fri Dec 22, 2017 10:09 am

Mandolin finish repair Loar lm-700

Post by Roger Hutson »

mandolindamage4.jpg
I bought this mandolin new online it had damage, don't know why it's damaged like it is but it plays just fine so I thought I would give it a shot and try to fix the damage. I'll include a couple of pictures any advice greatly appreciated.
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Barry Daniels
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Location: The Woodlands, Texas

Re: Mandolin finish repair Loar lm-700

Post by Barry Daniels »

What kind of finish is on it? Also, what kind of finish experience and tools do you have?
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Brian Evans
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Location: Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia

Re: Mandolin finish repair Loar lm-700

Post by Brian Evans »

Internet claims the LM-700 has a nitrocellulose finish, their lower end models are poly.
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Barry Daniels
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Joined: Thu Jan 05, 2012 10:58 am
Location: The Woodlands, Texas

Re: Mandolin finish repair Loar lm-700

Post by Barry Daniels »

Well, the way to know for sure if it is nitro is to find an area under a plate or guard that won't show if harmed. Place one drop of lacquer thinner on it and let it sit for a minute. Then remove the drop with a kleenex and look closely. If its nitro then you will seem that some finish has been removed or etched away. A poly finish will show no evidence of the effect.
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