How to flatten soundboard?

[skipii]

I have a fairly rare Takamine 370 SK that I love, but the top near the bridge has bowed up over the years to the point where neck adjustments don't correct it. Is there a way someone can steam the top back flat? Or do I have to have someone go in and replace the bracings?

Thanks.

[normus]

First things first. Do you live in a dry climate? If so, take all the pressure off the strings and put it in a guitar case with a guitar humidifier. DO NOT USE STEAM. Steam could potentionally seperate the top from the sides. Leave it in the case and check the humidifier to make sure it's staying moist. Leave it for about a week. Put the tension on the strings and see what's happened to the sound board. I've fixed guitars using this method alone, then advised customers to keep it in a humidified case when it's not in use. It must be a real case, not a 'gig bag' (wouldn't protect your sandwich).

If this doesn't work, go to www.stewmac.com and request a product catalog. At one point they had a system where you drilled a hole through the bridge (I know, scary but way cheaper than having the sound board re-done, which you could have done later if the instrument is extremely valuable) the hole will be covered with a small circle of MOP which is provided. Then a simple block and screw post mechanism is used to leverage the soundboard flat. I've done this on instruments and I've never heard it affect the sound in a negative way.

If you can't find one of these, I think I might have one still lying around here somewhere.

Good luck.