Is this bridge gap an issue?

[gtg2034]

You are assuming that the shot of the bridge is taken directly from overhead, exactly 90 degrees from the plane of the bridge. My view is that it is taken at an angle that accentuates whatever saddle lean may be present. I do not see a telltale gap behind the saddle in the slot.

You're right, seller has since updated the listing with pics, including a shot directly above. No lean on the bridge.

 

[SFIV1967]

You are assuming that the shot of the bridge is taken directly from overhead, exactly 90 degrees from the plane of the bridge. My view is that it is taken at an angle that accentuates whatever saddle lean may be present. I do not see a telltale gap behind the saddle in the slot.

Agreed, I also see no gap. And the camera lense distorts the picture. So maybe no concern at all. And yes, the updated picture shows that all seems to be fine!

Ralf

 

[geoguy]

That one is actually quite close to where I live - could swing up and test it out, covid doesn't allow for a lot of flexibility on that end, however. Would have to be a quick visit (understandable)

Interesting about bridge angle. Here's a couple more pics I got privately (will be getting more this evening). I'm not well versed in how a proper break angle should be.. too much saddle?

In the photo showing the side of the neck (at the nut & first couple of frets), I think the low E string looks to be rather high above the first & second frets (too much neck relief, & maybe nut slots could be lower).

Perhaps this guitar simply needs a good setup?

 

[gtg2034]

Perhaps this guitar simply needs a good setup?

Yeah, I think so too, just needs a bit of attention I guess. The only pic giving me pause is this one, though seller assures me it's not a crack, but varnish worn off on the side of the fretboard. Regardless I'll make a decision on it today

 

[davismanLV]

Wow, that crack running down into the mahogany of the neck from the nut is the most bothersome thing I've seen on this guitar!! I'd be wanting more photos of that to ensure it's finish related and not an actual neck crack. Especially considering it's been mentioned about too much neck relief. Maybe someone cranked on the truss rod too much? I dunno. Could be surface and finish, but it looks kinda deep to me. One more concern.....

 

[gtg2034]

Wow, that crack running down into the mahogany of the neck from the nut is the most bothersome thing I've seen on this guitar!! I'd be wanting more photos of that to ensure it's finish related and not an actual neck crack. Especially considering it's been mentioned about too much neck relief. Maybe someone cranked on the truss rod too much? I dunno. Could be surface and finish, but it looks kinda deep to me. One more concern.....

Yeah not pretty. Again, the seller assures me that it "might appear there is a gap in neck and fret board; it is not. It is varnish wear on the fret board to neck that has worn some with age"

He's been a very good sport with pics and info, so I'm not sure I want to take up any more of his time unnecessarily. I'm trying to buy a forever guitar, so at this point it might be wiser for me to be a bit patient, wait for the next one to come along (and not get wrapped up in the thrill of buying a '73!).

Thank you very much to all who chimed in!! Very valuable input thank you. I'm still jonesing for a D-35 / D-40 so I'm sure you'll hear from me soon

 

[davismanLV]

They come up all the time. Be patient, you'll find the right guitar. Or it'll find you.....

 

[SFIV1967]

They come up all the time. Be patient, you'll find the right guitar. Or it'll find you.....

Or we find it for him!
Ralf

 

[gtg2034]

Or we find it for him!
Ralf

!!!!

 

[adorshki]

I'm trying to buy a forever guitar, so at this point it might be wiser for me to be a bit patient, wait for the next one to come along (and not get wrapped up in the thrill of buying a '73!).

Oh yeah, for a "forever guitar" you can do better, especially if your ideal is a D35/D40 (and we can suggest closely related models like DV6's).

I get it, look at my signature list. I don't buy 'em unless I intend to keep 'em.