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I was just about to contour the back rims of my Martin OM kit, when I realized a problem.

The neck block is too short. It's flush with the top of the guitar rims, but about 3/32" short on the back side. I didn't realize this issue when I first glued up the rims. What is the best solution here? Should I:

1) Glue a 4/32" shim to the bottom of the block, which would make it 1/32" above the rim and ready for the sanding disk? Or
2) Am I okay to go ahead and contour the back rims until I've made an effective contour of the bottom side of the neck block? I would guess this would take some time and lessen the gluing surface of the kerfed lining.

I appreciate any advice. Thanks.

Chuck

Chuck: Are you saying the linings were glued to the sides before the sides were glued to end blocks? Do you have a plan for your guitar? What is the lenght of the block and what is the width of the side at the block position?
Tom

Hi Tom,

No--I attached the end blocks to the rims, then attached the kerfed-lining to the rims. The normal series of events. I didn't realize my neck block was too short when I assembled the rims (this is my first build).

The length of the neck block is 3-12/32". The width of the side is 3-15/32". Is this what you are asking?

Chuck

you can shim up or sand sides down That should be about 3 3/8 before the top and back on.

Chuck, glueing a piece onto the top of the block is easy, just make sure both surfaces are flat. you don't have to use mahogany, any hardwood will work. The you'll have that little extra you need to sand in your neck angle.

Kevin

Great, I will try gluing an extension to the end block, just enough to prepare for the sanding disk.

Thanks much for the advice.