Truss Rod Question

[dethken]

Hi all, this is my first post!  :guitaristgif:

I've just finished my 2nd Warmoth build. This one being a Tele body with Vintage Modern neck.

I'm having issues with adjusting the relief on the neck. When I turn the neck to tighten it doesn't change. It does get tighter as I turn it but no changes on my neck relief gauge.

Any ideas what I can do?

I didn't check it before I did the build, so no idea if it worked out of the box.. too late to return etc.. :icon_scratch:

 

[croquet hoop]

Welcome to the forum! Just to be sure, how are you checking the relief? Do you press a string between the first and last fret, and measure the distance between the bottom of the string and the top of the fret in the middle (usually the 8th)?

Also, the neck won't move immediately, you have to give it some time to adjust to the change of tension (usually a few hours). And you have to adjust it by small increments to avoid damaging it (not more than a quarter turn at a time).

 

[Cagey]

If it's strung up already, tightening the truss rod may have little or no effect. You have to relieve the tension on the neck for it to move.

Also, don't expect large movements in any event. The range of change is not that great. Depending on what you're using as a neck relief gauge, it's possible to not see any movement at all.

Finally, it is as Mr. Hoop says - you have to give it time to move.

 

[dethken]

Thanks for the reply guys.

I'm using the Stewmac neck relief gauge. I've used it on my other guitars (all Fenders) and it works pretty sweet. I do minor adjustments and see the relief move on the gauge. Sadly not with this Warmoth one (my first neck from them).

I've tried it with the strings strung on and off, same deal... Without tension the neck is fairly straight with a slight bow. The relief to be honest isn't hideous BUT it's a bit of a downer if I can't adjust it.

I'll give it some time and re measure  ???

 

[Cagey]

Tightening the truss rod will try and give it more bow. If you want some relief, you have to loosen it (counter-clockwise).

 

[dethken]

Sorry Cagey my wording was a bit off. I basically wanted a flatter neck.

I left it for a while and tried again and it finally started adjusting.

So all is well, hats off to Warmoth for this great build.

 

[Cagey]

No problem. Just wanted to make sure you weren't going in the wrong direction.