neck curvature over time

[nonsqtr]

I've read that wooden necks take some time to settle in to truss rod adjustments. I've also read that necks tend to "stiffen" over time, becoming harder and less flexible.

My question is, if I have a neck that is incorrectly adjusted, is it possible the bass might be ruined over time, so that it would eventually become impossible to adjust it correctly?

[michaelsanford]

Depends how bad the adjustment is, but if it's only a minor 'mistake' then I wouldn't say it would completely ruin your bass...others may disagree.

[seanm]

Wood is pretty resilient (as apposed to say steel). I think you could probably get it back unless the neck is so brittle it breaks. I once say a suggestion that if you are having trouble getting the neck flat, take the neck off and force a backbow into it for a while. Luckily, I have never had to try this! (Hmmm, I wonder if the "Mistress of Smilies" has a crossed fingers smiley )