Truss rod tweak--yay me

[Sombras]

OK, so I'm not afraid to turn a wrench. I've rebuilt engines, brake systems, done house electrical systems, removed and installed pick-ups, built and flown high-dollar r/c aircraft, etc.

But I've been deathly afraid of adjusting my guitars' truss rods. It's almost as if I've relegated guitar set-ups to the world of magic. So yesterday I got a wild hair and decided that my Epi's neck needed to be a *little* straighter and--voila!--it plays better. Somewhat easier to fret the strings, no buzzing, and nicer to play in general. I know that the guitar would still probably benefit from a true set up from a professional, but the truss rod helped a lot! If you've been thinking about doing this I'd say go for it. You could always put it back.

[harryboss1]

I was afraid to do this as well but years ago a friend (luthier) showed me how to do this and for years now I have been doing my own setups.

[stonebridgian]

yeah me too.... I have done a couple but my 12 string Tak needs a tweek and I am frightened of putting too much strength into it as it appears to be stuck. It may just be that I haven't the confidence to put my full strength behind it. Just don't want to risk putting it to the test. Anyone got any suggestions?
cheers
Ian

[RustyAxe]

Originally Posted by Ian.lum

yeah me too.... I have done a couple but my 12 string Tak needs a tweek and I am frightened of putting too much strength into it as it appears to be stuck. It may just be that I haven't the confidence to put my full strength behind it. Just don't want to risk putting it to the test. Anyone got any suggestions?
cheers
Ian

Try loosening the nut first.

[Tony Burns]

Were all their the first time -ive been playing for years and was always affraid on doing this myself - until someone said if your worried about it, it might be better to loosen it a bit first just to see how tight it already is -then go a little at a time . Im not a virgin at it any more.

[Sombras]

Yah, I definitely turned it the WRONG way at first! Took one look down the neck and knew immediately I needed to turn the rod the other way. Live and learn.

[vintageparlors]

I'm VERY glad to hear that players are taking steps toward tweaking their own guitars to their liking. Lots of folks are even intimidated to change their own strings and choose to spend their money on having the shop do it for them. AAARGH!

Hats off to you and those who are taking their rods by the wrench.

[rosewoodsteel]

Originally Posted by vintageparlors

....Lots of folks are even intimidated to change their own strings.....

Are you serious?

[stonebridgian]

Originally Posted by RustyAxe

Try loosening the nut first.

DUH!

That did the trick. and can't believe the improvement in the sound.

cheers
Many thanks

Ian

[stonebridgian]

Originally Posted by rosewoodsteel

Are you serious?

Yup. I know people like that! I re-string a few guitars for 'friends'. Maybe I should start charging. I have even offered to show them how to do it but they are 'frightened'. (or maybe just too lazy)

cheers

Ian

[prusaw]

Gotta make your guitar happy.... Imagine what it's like for the guitar to be all stressed out, wishing it's owner would just make a simple adjustment and everything would feel better :-)