Fender Brown Derby Musical Toy Instrument User Manual


 
Finish checking, (very small splits in the finish), usually occurs in winter and is typically the result of exposing a cold
instrument to the shock of warmer temperatures. For example: transporting an instrument in a cold automobile and then
bringing it inside and opening it up in a much warmer environment.
All of the materials that make up a guitar expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, and they do so
at different rates. Wood expands as it warms, and it does so, faster than the finish. When this happens, the finish may
split and fracture in minute lines over the wood.
Although it does not affect the tone of the instrument, finish checking affects the aesthetic appearance. By avoiding sud-
den temperature and humidity changes, you should be able to minimize finish checking problems, however, a certain
amount of checking is natural over the years as an instrument ages.
When an instrument has been brought into a warmer building after it has been out in the cold, always allow plenty of
time for it to become acclimated to the new temperature before you open the case.
Please Note: Finish checking which, occurs as the result of exposure to temperature or humidity changes over
time, will not be covered under the Fender warranty.
Finish Checking
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