Is there any chance for a repair? (P bass truss-rod trouble)

malisha · #1 02-05-2008, 09:43 PM

Ok. I have a problem with one of my basses. It's a Squier P bass. The screw on the truss-rod has wore off from frequent changing of the tension. Now, whenever i try to change it, it doesn't go anywhere... I am rotating the hex key, but it doesn't do anything. Is there a chance that i can fix this problem? (because it is pretty much useless right now)

rockr4Christ · #2 02-05-2008, 09:44 PM

get a new neck.
www.warmoth.com
or all parts

202dy · #3 02-05-2008, 09:52 PM

The problem is not clear. Is the nut stripped on the threads of the rod? Or is the hex recess stripped in the nut? Or are the threads on the top of the rod stripped? Each is possible and each has a different remedy. Please let us know and someone here will help you.

malisha · #4 02-05-2008, 09:59 PM

Sorry for not being clear... I am not so good with English. Let me try to explain. The hex recess is now round in shape (from frequent use). So when i rotate the key it just doesn't do a thing.

fenderx55 · #5 02-05-2008, 10:06 PM

You need to get a slightly bigger Hex wrench, make sure that it's sharp, and jam it in there, hopefully re-threading it (so to speak). I believe that this is the preferred method of Dan erlewine.

MaxZolt · #6 02-05-2008, 10:06 PM

I had the same problem on my Fender, and I ended up having to replace the neck.

meev992 · #7 02-05-2008, 10:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by malisha

Sorry for not being clear... I am not so good with English. Let me try to explain. The hex recess is now round in shape (from frequent use). So when i rotate the key it just doesn't do a thing.

next time, take care of your truss rod hex, and don't get careless with the wrench / wearing out the teeth.

T-Bird · #8 02-05-2008, 10:20 PM

Hi, malisha.

Quote:

Originally Posted by malisha

The hex recess is now round in shape (from frequent use). So when i rotate the key it just doesn't do a thing.

Quote:

Originally Posted by fenderx55

You need to get a slightly bigger Hex wrench, make sure that it's sharp, and jam it in there, hopefully re-threading it (so to speak). I believe that this is the preferred method of Dan erlewine.

That, or You can also try screw extractors. The classic type is cheaper, but You might have to trim the end a bit. The modern version is my choice. Any hardware store should carry the former, better automotive shops the latter.

When You get it out replace the nut.

Don't throw Your neck away for a stripped nut-slot!

Just my 0.02 €
Sam

guitarrepairguy · #9 02-05-2008, 10:27 PM

For rounded out truss nuts, this tool works great. I use it in my shop.
http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Tools/Sp...od_Wrench.html

202dy · #10 02-05-2008, 10:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by meev992

next time, take care of your truss rod hex, and don't get careless with the wrench / wearing out the teeth.

How is this post helpful?

The first rule of TalkBass is respect for other posters.

202dy · #11 02-05-2008, 10:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guitarrepairguy

For rounded out truss nuts, this tool works great. I use it in my shop.
http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Tools/Sp...od_Wrench.html

Good tool. Highly recommended.

malisha · #12 02-05-2008, 10:45 PM

Thank you guys for all your answers. I will probably have to take the bass to the repair shop, but in the meantime i will try to figure something for myself. Thanks again, and keep 'em posting if you have a fresh idea.

georgestrings · #13 02-05-2008, 11:57 PM

In this case, *usually* a standard(the original is metric) size allen wrench will work to turn the nut out of there, if you loosen all the strings beforehand... Then, completely remove the nut, replace it with a new one, and start out with a new, properly fitting allen wrench... Also, put a little lubricant on the threads(grease, neversieze, etc..) before installing the new nut... Sometimes some penetrating oil can help these situations - I've had excellent luck with PB Blaster or Kroil...

I doubt you need a new neck...

- georgestrings

Cebe · #14 02-08-2008, 11:54 AM

Well I had same problem with one hand made bass.
What I did is next. Actually it didn`t solve the problem as solving it but it had effect.
I dont know how to say it in english but I`ll try. I`m pulling neck backwards once per week. However, action didn`t move for 3 years. Nice.

malisha · #15 02-09-2008, 11:27 AM

That's great, if it works!

I feared that this was a big problem, since i didn't realize that this screw is replaceable. Since it is, I'll just take it to a repair guy, first time i get the chance. Thank you guys for replying, you were great help. Except meev992. He can go kiss my hex recess!

Just kidding! No hard feelings.

Pilgrim · #16 02-10-2008, 12:31 AM

And don't forget the advice above about using the right tool. If the correct wrench had been used on that nut in the past, it would still be in good shape. That recess doesn't get rounded out if the right tool has been used, and it has been inserted carefully.

malisha · #17 02-10-2008, 01:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pilgrim

And don't forget the advice above about using the right tool. If the correct wrench had been used on that nut in the past, it would still be in good shape. That recess doesn't get rounded out if the right tool has been used, and it has been inserted carefully.

I live in Serbia, and we use metric system... It is possible that I had been given a wrong hex wrench... Thanks for the advice.

Cebe · #18 02-12-2008, 02:48 PM

Since you live in Serbia - puno pozdrava iz Novog Sada!