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Something wrong with my neck?

P

Poop-Loops

Inactive
Mar 3, 2006
5,488
8
40
Auburn, Washington
#1
I bought a new fretless 5 string Dean Edge a few weeks back. I want to adjust the relief (it's a bit high), so I try to tighten the truss rod (while "helping" the neck straight), and I hear this wood cracking sound. It's not super loud cracking, but it's not smooth. So I try to loosen it a bit first, same deal.

I'm not even turning the allen wrench yet. I'm applying some pressure, and the second it moves like a tiny fraction, I hear the sound. My goal is to turn it 1/8th of a turn and see what it's like then, but I can't even get it like 1/256 because I can hear the wood...

Is that normal?
 
#4
I had the same situation with a Fender Deluxe Precision. I believe, as previously stated, it is the glue they use. I worried for a little while, and was very careful when I adjusted the truss rod. I never had any real problem, it was just an annoying noise.
 
#5
Phew. When I first bought it I asked them to set it up, but they said "it's fine". And it is, but I need it just the way I like it. ;)

The place is almost an hour away and parking is impossible to find (downtown Seattle, Pioneer Square). The first time I went there, I got lost and kept going in circles for 2 hours. :(

But yeah, it's not like I'm cranking the thing or anything. The second the allen wrench starts to move, I hear it. Even when it's loosening it. I guess it is the glue, then.

No problems can come from it if I loosen it a bit to test it out, right?

EDIT: Huzzah! After the initial "crack", the rod turned smoothly, both ways. So it must have been the glue. Thanks all for your help!
 
#6
Any time you mess with the truss rod, I would be careful, but if you are really worried, take it to any music store and ask them. Keep in mind, you don't have to go out to the place you bought it unless you decide to get your money back. Any knowledgeable guitar tech should be able to answer your questions.

Like I said, though, I messed with my truss rod to get it perfect, and despite the crackling, it turned out okay, even after experimentation. My drummer at the time, who was an idiot, said, "I think your neck is coming off". Nothing close to that ever happened. :)
 

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