Truss Rod

Truss Rod

Marks Guitar Exchange Chula Vista

So that's why I suggest that you have your guitar properly set-up by a 'guitar tech' in your area.

What this really means is...your guitar will be as 'playable' as it can be. A set-up job is something that any guitar-tech at your local music store will be able to do for a nominal expense (usually less than $50.) A typical set-up job includes:

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1. Adjusting the Truss Rod. The truss rod is the metal reinforcement that runs length of the guitar's neck (inside the neck.) It needs routine adjustment to make the action (the distance between the strings and the frets) as low as possible without buzzing.

This rod adjusts the 'bend' in the neck forward or backward and should only be adjusted by someone who is experienced. Just the right amount of tension and your guitar plays 'like butter.' Too much, and your guitar ends up in splinters at your feet!

2. Adjusting the Bridge and the Nut. The bridge (by the tail piece) and nut (by the tuning pegs) are the two places that the strings make contact with the guitar. Sometimes these need to be filed or sanded down to get the proper action on a guitar. A good tech will check this and make adjustments as needed.

On some guitars (mostly electrics), the bridge will be adjustable using tools and your tech will know how to do it.

3. Changing the Strings. Along with all the adjustments, a set-up will include a new set of strings, properly stretched out and ready to play.

When all is said and done, a proper set-up job will make your guitar as easy to play as possible, so that you can get back to making music.

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What should I do if the guitar I bought doesn't have a truss rod?

Just bought a vintage 1950's airline acoustic, doesn't have a truss rod, what should I do? I didn't know it was a bad thing, but i just figured out it would warp the guitar without it!

Go to a guitar shop. They can straighten it out, and make sure you follow what they tell you, because there is a special way to maintain these guitars. One is to hang store it, not always, but sometimes. Another is to keep it in a non humid,and also temp regulated, room enviroment. Don't stress too much. If it is a vintage, it does have the chance of warping,but they used different type of wood, sometimes bolsa. The are tighter and more sturdier, and may deal with the lack of the truss rod better. Definitely go to a GOOD guitar shop. The best that I have ever seen was Ed Roman, the best that there is. He can even, not recommended, probable place a truss rod in it for you. Here is his link. I worked with him before, he is the best there is. He always worked his magic on my guitars and my people.

http://www.edroman.com/

Tell him that AI Studio, Pam.... Sent You.