truss nut problem? us sb-2

[watspan]

Sorry to be such a G&L newbie, but I want to tighten my trussrod a bit on my nos us sb-2 I just obtained and something doesn't seem right. bear with me as I confirm the basics (for reference my fenders and rumblefish seem the same--adjustment from the headstock)

I gather a 1/8" allen wrench is the right tool vs. the larger size fender uses. the sb-2 has a "silver bullet" on the headstock but upon close inspection w/ magnification, it really doesn't look like a hex in there?!? when I put a 1/8" allen in there it seems tight but doesn't seem to "grab" like a hex should. I don't want to horse or force anything. does this sound like it's stripped or am I doing something real boneheaded? Please advise.

[spideyjg]

3 bolt neck or 6 bolt?

[watspan]

Originally Posted by spideyjg

3 bolt neck or 6 bolt?

3

[spideyjg]

Someone may have changed it to a metric. Everyone should have a set of standard and metric allen keys.

Try a metric that is a hair larger and see how it fits.

1/8 has always worked on the older ones but trust your feel.

Jim

[Youngspanion]

Jim,

I've got to ask. What does she have hanging from her mouth? Do you know her?

[rok51]

Originally Posted by spideyjg

...Everyone should have a set of standard and metric allen keys...

Amen! The combo set at Wally World in the blue pouch for .98 are actually quite good. The steel is good and so is the fit. I bought a boatload and keep a set in each case. I got mine before they raised prices...they used to be a whopping .88!

Kim

[Templar]

watspan, the nut may be only partially stripped, nearest to the end. G&L's are notorious for easily stripped truss nuts and stubborn truss rods, the latter usually being responsible for the former.

Try inserting your allen key lengthwise into the nut. As long as you know the key is the correct size, you can tap it deeply into the nut to get a good bite. Then use a pliers for leverage at the short end of the key for turning.

I've run into this problem on several G&L's, and find this approach works even better than using a long T-handle hex wrench.

Good luck.

[watspan]

I took it to my luthier for a set up and told him I was uncertain if the nut was stuck--he put a wrench on it and it moved fine--no problem!

[Chef]

well, that's good news!
i bet he just put the wrench in there further.

[watspan]

Originally Posted by Chef

well, that's good news!
i bet he just put the wrench in there further.

I watched him--he loosened the nut first (doh!) then all was fine!