Right tool for Truss Rod adjustments?

**Matthew_84** · #1 01-07-2011, 06:39 PM

Hey guys,

I have a 2000 Fender American Series Precision. The truss rod adjustment bolt is in the heel of the neck (not in the headstock like I'm used to).

Today I bought a 3/16 allen key with a rounded end to make my adjustments. It works fine to loosen the rod, but it's kind of hard to tighten. Now I'm sure that's because it's probably fairly tight as it is, and the allen key's rounded end is on the longer side so I don't have so much leverage. I know I can move it if I give it some more push, but I just want to make sure this is the right tool to use and that I won't cause any damage to the bolt.

Thanks a ton guys,

Matt

walterw · #2 01-07-2011, 06:51 PM

it is, but if it feels hard to tighten, you might want to loosen the strings and push the neck into backbow when tightening to help the rod along. fender usually supplies one with a T-handle for more torque.

i took a 3/16" allen wrench and sawed it off right at the bend so it would fit in those basses, giving me better leverage and control.

**Matthew_84** · #3 01-07-2011, 07:04 PM

Yeah, I bought it used and it didn't come with a wrench. I was hoping to find one of those at my local hardware shop, but no luck.

What I guess is worrying me, is that the wrench slips out of the bolt, but I guess that's just from the design of the wrench's rounded end.

I just got it about two weeks ago now, and only put flats on it today, so I'll see how much adjusting I'll need to do, so far, so good.

Thanks for the tip about putting it in a backbow and all. That makes a lot of sense. Much appreciated.

Slowgypsy · #4 01-07-2011, 07:23 PM

I believe this is the official Fender tool for the job....
http://accessories.musiciansfriend.c...FaE65QodUC3hmg

**Matthew_84** · #5 01-07-2011, 08:55 PM

very niice gypsy... I just wish it wasn't $33 to ship it to Toronto, lol. I'll check out some local music shops around here. I'm sure I'll find it somewhere. Thanks

JLS · #6 01-08-2011, 12:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matthew_84

very niice gypsy... I just wish it wasn't $33 to ship it to Toronto, lol. I'll check out some local music shops around here. I'm sure I'll find it somewhere. Thanks

Read Walterw's post. That's what to do.