The other day I checked out an early '60s Ludwig kit that turned out to be in pretty solid shape, both functionally and cosmetically speaking. However, when I got around to the interior of the bass drum, this is what I found. Is there still hope for this one, or is it too far gone? Any "words of wisdom" would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Ludwig Bass Drum Shell Last viewed: 6 hours ago
looks like a bit of water damage, most of these drums over time dried out and had end splitage, not a thing wrong with this drum other than looks, if it were mine I would get some white water base glue, and thin it down a bit so it will flow better, smear it into the cracks so all the voids are full. then get a piece of 1/8 hard plastic, cut it so it will lay between the lug screws, apply a heavy coat of wax to the plastic so it will not stick to the glue, lay it over the repair, placing a heavy catalogue that will follow the contour of drum shell, then weight it down. hopefully the wax will keep plastic from sticking.
looks like a bit of water damage, most of these drums over time dried out and had end splitage, not a thing wrong with this drum other than looks, if it were mine I would get some white water base glue, and thin it down a bit so it will flow better, smear it into the cracks so all the voids are full. then get a piece of 1/8 hard plastic, cut it so it will lay between the lug screws, apply a heavy coat of wax to the plastic so it will not stick to the glue, lay it over the repair, placing a heavy catalogue that will follow the contour of drum shell, then weight it down. hopefully the wax will keep plastic from sticking.
I appreciate the input!
I'd personally go with wood glue. My personal preference is Tight Bond 3. But would go with the same use of the plastic, and maybe a weight or clamps to hold it. I've had times where using anything but clamps just isn't enough to really hold the wood back down snug. But certainly is not too far gone, and a somewhat common issue to find.
Not a Guru, just addicted to drums

- Jay
Yes should be repairable... Cuts along with the grain, I would be forming appropriate size "peel back" flaps Eg Stanley Knife .. in order to get lots of wood glue in under that veneer. Usual clamping methods plus putty & sand..
Cheers
John
'69 Slingerland Hollywood Ace
'75 Rogers Dynasonic 6.5 x 14, 10 lug COB
'77-78 Slingerland 6.5 x 14, 10 lug COB
'78-79 Slingerland 5 1/4 x14 8 lug COB
'79 Biman 5 1/4, Acrolite
'82 Slingerland 5 1/4 x 14. Festival COS
'84 Tama MasterCraft Superstar 6.5 x 14, 10 lug Rosewood
'98 Slingerland (Music YO) 6" 10 Lug Maple.. NOS
Zildjian, Sabian , UFIP & Paiste mix.
Oldschool I would get a large animal syringe and use that to get the glue in cracks underneath hard to reach areas. I agree with the tight bond wood glue because that's what I've used before myself. I think that's going to glue down for you ok. Good luck!
Oldschool I would get a large animal syringe and use that to get the glue in cracks underneath hard to reach areas. I agree with the tight bond wood glue because that's what I've used before myself. I think that's going to glue down for you ok. Good luck!
Bingo!!
Cheers
1978 Ludwig Stainless 22-22-18-16-14-13-12 c/w 6-8-10-12-13-14-15-16-18-20-22-24 concert toms
1975 Sonor Phonic Centennials Metallic Pewter 22-16-13-12-14sn (D506)
1971 Ludwig Classic Bowling Ball OBP 22-16-14-13
1960's Stewart Peacock Pearl 20-16-12-14sn
1980`s Ludwig Coliseum Piano Black 8x14 snare
1973 Rogers Superten 5x14 & 6.5x14 COS snares
1970`s John Grey Capri Aquamarine Sparkle 5x14 snare
1941 Ludwig & Ludwig Super 8x14 snare
Thanks to all for your time and recommendations. I really do appreciate it!
Oldschool I would get a large animal syringe and use that to get the glue in cracks underneath hard to reach areas. I agree with the tight bond wood glue because that's what I've used before myself. I think that's going to glue down for you ok. Good luck!
yep, what ec said. that should do the trick.
Robyn
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