Is it unusual for fender Truss rods to feel maxxed out when set up right?

**IvanMike** · #1 05-22-2010, 09:36 AM

I don't normally set up fender style instruments but have two on loan to me - a 71 p bass and a 78 musicmaster (which is also a big project to improve it with better pickup(s) etc.

Anyhow, both had too much relief, i gave both a 1/4 turn "righty tighty" and the relief is right where it should be, big improvement. However, with both necks as soon as i got to about 1/4 turn they felt maxxed out and i didn't want to (and probably couldn't) force them to turn any further. Is this common with fenders?

walterw · #2 05-22-2010, 05:22 PM

pop the necks off, unscrew the truss rod nuts all the way out, lube the internal threads with wax and a little oil (not enough to get on the wood), then re-install, maybe using the trick of forcing the necks into back-bow before you screw the nut in tight.

you should get back to where you were, but with a less fear-inducing stiffness to the tightening.

stflbn · #3 05-22-2010, 05:27 PM

Always helps to 'help' the neck into a straighter position when tightening truss rods. IMHO.

**IvanMike** · #4 05-22-2010, 07:55 PM

did the 2nd , didnt try the remove n lube

Chasarms · #5 05-22-2010, 09:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IvanMike

. . . the relief is right where it should be . . .

You're done, man. Don't over think it. It isn't that uncommon for older instruments to behave as you described. Truth is, you could probably force it and it move, but the "help" as described above is the best advice offered so far.