truss rod nut won't go on

dragon574444 · #1 06-06-2009, 02:04 PM

Well, my truss rod was maxed out , but there was still some bow. I read that putting a washer between the nut and the rod would help, so I took off the nut. Now it won't go back on! It looks like the rod is...off center.... I really need help, I have a gig soon and this is my only bass! How can I move the rod or do something to get the nut back on. Please don't tell me to go to a luthier, because I don't even have 2 pennies to rub together.

**TheMutt** · #2 06-06-2009, 02:19 PM

Ouch! Been there before on my first bass.

I had to take it to a luthier, but from what I've heard they bend the neck to the point that the nut can be screwed back on. I'm sure some competent luthiers will chime in soon. Good luck!

dragon574444 · #3 06-06-2009, 02:25 PM

Update:

I took off the neck and the tuning tree/heads to get a better look. When I shake the neck, I hear a rattling noise which can only be the truss rod. Is this normal?

**TheMutt** · #4 06-06-2009, 02:55 PM

Yep. Trust me, that truss rod isn't going to come flying out of your bass, otherwise the tension put on it by the nut would have done that a long time ago.

dragon574444 · #5 06-06-2009, 03:26 PM

Update:

I found out what that rattling was from. The previous owner had put a washer in there!

dragon574444 · #6 06-06-2009, 04:03 PM

I finally got it. It took my full 130 lbs of weight to bend the neck enough, but I got it. Thanks for the help "Themutt" if that is your real name