How to remove a...?

[Charlie R57]

Fingerboard. ?
How hard is it to remove a fingerboard Intact
I need one for my progect guitar and was going
to try taking one off a guitar.
Any tips Please.

 

[Plankspanker]

Don't know what it is called exactly but there's a heating tool that looks like a metal bar as long as a fingerboard with a electrical cord and control box. I borrowed one from a Luthier friend and clamped this device on top of the fretboard and gently heated it up.
The heat softens the glue joint so that you can slip a spatula in at the edge and gently work your way down the length, separating the fretboard from the neck. Be careful so as not to break anything. If you are gentle and have the temperature set right, it will come apart.
I've used this procedure on National resonator instruments without any problem and have been able to remedy some neck/fretboard issues. The type of glue used is important as some will soften up once heat is applied. others may require a different procedure.

 

[Wilko]

I used a household clothing iron to remove the fretboard of a Harptone 12 string so I could reglue it.

Worked fine. Frets on...they may have helped conduct heat.

 

[Charlie R57]

Thanks guys, I could try the Iron method, I have one
of those somewhere. But the type of glue thing
Bothers me. Will glue like Tite Bond come off with
the heat method ?

 

[Charlie R57]

OK... so no one knows about the glue thing.
How about this, Will the heat required to remove
the fingerboard damage the plastic binding or
inlays ??

 

[Wilko]

some glues may act different. I'm a hobbyist and a hack.

I'd imagine the bindings may be ok, though the edges might get a bit messy when they separate...

i used lot's of steam with my iron. I used a putty knife to get under the board. the inlays will be ok, one or two might pop out. Just glue 'em back in.

 

[Charlie R57]

Yea, I'm a hack also, just trying to do the best job
on this that I can.
There are a few serious builders on this forum who
know all the answers, I just can’t figure out why
they don’t want to help me. :wtf
I appreciate the help I’ve gotten to All who responded.:dude

 

[Tonefiend]

Charlie check your email I didn't see this before. I can guide you through it.

 

[Charlie R57]

Thanks for the Info Ian, I do have some other questions
and need all the help i can get.
I'll email you if it's ok.
Thanks again.