Advice Needed... 1982 Gibson Les Paul Custom Finish Checking

[Mark Skid]

After trying many new model Gibson guitars, I decided to purchase a 1982 Les Paul Custom. 1978 through 1982 have always been my favorite years for the LP Custom. I believe 1982 is also when they brought back the dished top. Not only is the guitar 100% stock, it still has the original strings on it. It still has the original protective film on the pick guard. It was left to the seller by his uncle who purchased it new. If I can, I'd like to repair the nitro so that it doesn't begin to chip away from the front of the instrument.

I once owned a '68 LPC with finish damage that I tried to repair. I used what was billed as nitrocellulose, but when I sprayed it on the guitar, the existing finish crumbled! Luckily, it was on the bottom edge, so I was able to blend-out the damage. Any ideas on how to proceed, or should I just leave it. I've done nitro fill-ins in the past with great success. This is different, as the checking is quite extensive.

 

[RaceU4her]

need pics

 

[Findthetone1]

I know a guy. He’s phenomenal with nitro and would be who I’d take it to but I’m sure you want to keep it local. Hopefully you can find someone to do a partial refinish

 

[DanTravis62]

I'd try to find the most reputable luthier, as close to me as possible, and pay an exorbitant amount of money to insure they did a good job.

I wouldn't do this myself, with this particular guitar.

 

[Exo-metal]

Pat Wilkins in L.A.....you're welcome.

 

[Mark Skid]

Just replaced the strings... Fretless Wonder heaven!