Slight neck fitting problems...

[agirardeau]

Hi all. I have a neck that I purchased from Warmoth and it seems to not fit well in the neck pocket of the bass body I bought from SpaltKings. I measured it and the body pocket is small by less than 1/16 of an inch. I don't know if sanding it down would mess up the alignment. This is the first bass that I'm building so I think it would be wise to ask before I do permanent damage

Also, would any of you recommend putting a finish on the neck and body first before drilling holes for the tuners, strap locks, and bridge? Or does it not matter? Thanks for replying

[john grey]

If you are not familiar with setting up a router jig for a flat removal of material then I would suggest returning the neck and explaining the situation: they may have the ability to alter one, etc. HOWEVER, you really need to have measurements exacting for that to be done.

It's likely better to take it to someone locally and get the body routed. Often a "bump" or lump in the pocket is making a problem and with a good router fit, you will have a solid flat connection.

[96tbird]

Alignment is set when you bolt the neck down. If strings don't line up, you simply loosen the bolts about 3/4 to 1 turn, position the neck and tighten it back up. Only a hair movement in the pocket translates to a lot of movement at the head. G&L manuals suggest this be done and in fact loosen the bolts at pitch to "seat the neck properly in the pocket". Make sure the holes in the body allow the bolts to pass through freely and only "thread" into the neck. A peice of metal screen in the bottom of the pocket locks the neck in place; it's not necessary, but is a good practice.

So sanding if possible won't hurt alignment. It likely will hurt appearance. Routing that less than sixteenth inch away is best, or you pay shipping again (and again?) till you get a perfect fit. Don't expect parts from different suppliers to fit.

I would drill for tuners before you finish, because it's easy to scratch it up just due to the length; you may have to clean out the holes after to get the ferrules in. The body will be fine after finishing or before if you are clumsy. If before, you likely will have to clean them out after anyway.