replacing a tree? cost?

[keep the faith]

Can anyone tell me how much roughly it would cost to replace a tree and reflock a 17.5in gp saddle. Saddle was possibly dropped and now flexes slightly about half way down gullet and if you run your finger along gullet when it is flexed you can feel a small crack. Would it repair or is a new tree the best option. Saddle only to be used occasionally for show hunter classes.

[Teazle]

Don't know exactly how much but do know that it's often cheaper to buy a new saddle.

[keep the faith]

Saddle cost £850 and is only 18months old. It was fitted to my mare when she was in working livery at a riding school so i knew she would be comfortable. Have a suspicion it was dropped onto the pommel. Its a waste of a saddle especially as it wasn't cheap.It was only in use for 6/7months and has been stored in my tackroom since as she is no longer stabled at the RS.

[Wally]

Dropping a saddle on the pommel shouldn't break the tree. You ought to see how they are treated before they go out to the customers! :o

Sadly replacing the tree isn't a simple job as the seaming and the backing will all have to be replaced. 'tis a big job. Can you not write it off on your insurance?

[unicornleather]

I often give out quotes for new trees, very expensive though as Wally says, alot of work and most saddles are written off and replaced with new via insurance.
Oz :)

[keep the faith]

Does that not make my insurance go up?

[Denbenj]

What is insurance for tho..we pay all this money and were worried to use it! ( same goes for me!)

I think this would be a good time to use it x

[KarinUS]

I've inquired about tree replacement before and was told that it would cost as much as getting a new saddle because basically they have to take the whole thing apart and fit the leather back over it, etc. so it's like they are building a saddle from the ground up. It's very labor (cost) intensive.
Sorry. :(

[Ginger Thing]

I had one done about 2 yrs ago for £120.