Quick Truss Rod Question

[BakerJ]

I bought a MIM Jazz not too long ago, and took it by a local shop to have a guy set it up. When he was adjusting the neck, he started lecturing, and said the prior owner had no idea of what they were doing (string gauge too high, and was bowing neck, etc.). Once everything was set, we put on a set of .45- .105 Fat Beams. I was thinking of eventually trying out chromes, but I noticed they're .45-.100. If I change to strings that are a slightly different gauge, am I going to have to adjust the neck again? (sorry if this has been addressed before. Didn't see anything in search).

 

[T-Bird]

Hi.

If I change to strings that are a slightly different gauge, am I going to have to adjust the neck again?

Possibly, but probably only max a quarter turn in either direction if even that.
The gauge in itself doesn't dictate the string tension, or which set has more or less tension than another set, the construction plays a big part in it as well.

Regards
Sam

 

[Rocky McD]

The pressure of the strings always has an effect on the neck. Adjusting the truss rod tension is a common part of setting up a bass. You should not fear changing strings, many bassists rarely change strings, especially flats, they sometimes get better with age. The tension of the strings will effect how they feel to you. Some players like low tension, some high. Don't let the neck dictate your preference on strings. I like Chromes personally but use TI's, they are very low tension. You need to learn to do proper setups yourself as adjusting the setup is an ongoing maintenance that every player should be able to perform.
Rocky

 

[Zooberwerx]

I like a tech who lectures, rambles, demonstrates, etc. while working on gear...there's a lot to be learned provided he knows what he's talking about. As pointed out, all instruments require periodic adjustments in response to age, wear, climate, string experimentation, and playing style. You should be able to pull off 90% of the maintenance yourself. OTOH, be aware of your limitations and ask for help when necessary.

Riis

 

[BakerJ]

Thanks for the replies. I'm originally a double bassist, and I'm still familiarizing myself with some maintenance stuff on bass guitar. I just opted to take it to the shop this time around because I figured the few extra bucks were better than a broken truss rod.