Can I just adjust the Bridge Height?

[m0ranwad]

(First of all, I followed several links, and watched several videos on setting up a bass properly.)

My question is, can I do any one of the steps (truss rod, nut adjustment, bridge height, string length) without doing the others?

I do not have a nut file, and I just realized my capo has gone missing


The action is far too high, and after practicing 2-4 hours a day, I'm starting to pay the price in my wrists/tendons. I have the necessary tools for adjusting the bridge, and I'd like to do so before practicing tonight. Any reason not to?

[GKevinK]

Of course you can. These days I view having a grasp on getting your own settings dialed in is like a rite of passage for a player. I remember when I started being afraid of 'screwing things up'... but now feel comfortable making any reversible adjustment. Baby steps.

[96tbird]

Sure but it's always best to check neck relief first. It only takes a minute and adjusting is generally easy. And no you don't have to wait for the neck to settle. If it changes in a couple days just re tweak it and leave the action alone.

[m0ranwad]

Does anyone else use a credit card as your measurement? I don't have a Feeler Gauge handy.

[FourBanger]

I do it all the time, go in small increments, then play for a while, then either stop or do it again. I all of the sudden it gets all clanky you've gone too a far and need more relief.

Honestly, I set up my bass, and formerly guitars, without measurements or capos or anything and got wonderful results. It might take some time playing around and getting a feel for it but as long as you don't turn the truss rod miles at a time you won't break anything.

[96tbird]

Originally Posted by m0ranwad

Does anyone else use a credit card as your measurement? I don't have a Feeler Gauge handy.

I use a business card. Credit card is a big gap.

[hotbass57]

I use the buisness card or a pick for string height.. Just take your time. I to used to be afraid of working on them. But if you're patient you'll get it.

[Edward G.]

If you're satisfied with the straightness of the fingerboard and there is no unwanted string buzzing, all you should do is adjust your string height at the bridge. Be sure to check your 12th-fret intonation as well.

[Edward G.]

FWIW, solid-body guitars and basses are close to indestructible, by design. A modicum of interest in what you're doing is all you need to work on them. It's not like dealing with delicate sculpture or pottery. It's a stout mechanical device.