Go-Bar — Lutherie Encyclopedia

Go-BarType: glossaryA flexible stick used in a go-bar deck clamping system to apply even pressure when gluing braces to instrument tops and backs.## Definition A go-bar is a thin, flexible rod, typically made of fiberglass, carbon fiber, or a springy wood like hickory, used as a clamping device in lutherie. Go-bars work within a go-bar deck, which is a two-platform station where the instrument plate rests on the lower platform and the go-bars are flexed between the upper platform ceiling and small cauls placed on the braces being glued. The natural spring force of the bent rod provides consistent, even downward pressure. Go-bar decks are favored for gluing braces to soundboards and backs because they allow the builder to apply pressure at many points simultaneously along irregularly shaped braces, something that would be difficult or impossible with conventional clamps. ## In Practice A typical go-bar session involves preparing the plate on a concave or flat dish, applying glue to the braces, positioning them on the plate, placing small protective cauls on top of each brace, and then flexing go-bars from the ceiling of the deck down onto each caul. A builder may use a dozen or more go-bars for a single gluing operation. The flexible rods must be long enough to develop sufficient spring pressure but not so stiff that they damage the thin plate. Go-bar pressure is gentler and more evenly distributed than clamp pressure, reducing the risk of denting or distorting the plate. Builders must work efficiently because the open assembly time of the glue limits how long they have to place all the bars before the adhesive begins…