fender bullet head replacement.

[Ledzep95]

I just recently picked up a '77 jazz bass and the person who sold it to me didn't inform me of the stripped bullet head. it's not a big deal, but I'll need to adjust the truss rod eventually. I can't even begin to guesss on how to change it. Any suggestions would be helpful, thanks.

[JTE]

Get one of these from Stew-Mac. STEWMAC.COM : Fender-style Bullet Truss Rod Nut

Then CAREFULLY back the existing one out (that's probably going to be the most difficult part, and helping you via the 'net isn't going to be easy), put a little LIGHT lube on the threads. I use bicycle grease because it won't get into the wood and I always have bike grease (NOT chain lube, but the grease for packing bearings) around the house.

Always use the correct sized allen key, make sure it's firmly seated and aligned before you start twisting things, and ALWAYS pre-stress the neck before you tighten the nut.

John

[john grey]

The ideal tool is obviously a great idea to have available.
However; do yourself a favor and don't create a problem where non exists previously. buying the tool is a good idea, but working on a neck (or for that matter any working element of an instrument) when no problem is displayed is a great way to create a headache.. Investing in the tool is great. But if it works; don't fix it. More problems are created than actually exist.

[Ledzep95]

thanks for the replies, based on this I think I might just let it go until it needs to be adjusted. Then maybe take it To a luthier to do it. I wouldn't want to chance screwing up something that I paid so much for.