Howdy all, got a small problem here. Seems that my sugar maple (?) has a
dead/dying branch/trunk. This south facing branch has broken and dried
bark. The upper off shoots and leaves are almost non existent leaving a
somewhat open area now.

Should I just cut the branch off below the visible problem area or, cut even
lower? Or, call a tree expert. This tree gives us some much needed shade
in an otherwise sunny yard and it is much beloved by my wife. It's always
been a very full tree, still is except for the dying branch?

All feedback welcome.
Pics he http://www.pbase.com/hiker/tree