What to use to clamp a neck straight?

Maybe this method would work. Check it out at 1:35.



Edit: I have also just clamped to work bench.

 

I'm probably out in "left field" with this remark but.............sand bags. My wife made me about 8 sand bags about 30 years ago. One of the best ways to put down pressure on stuff.

Good luck!

I think that there is a place out in Texas that specializes in bowed necks. Check out the fees. A Google search will locate.

 

I have used a long 2x4 with two smaller pieces of wood and a few dry sponges. Put one of the smaller pieces of 2x4 on each end of the longer 2x4. On top of each of those pieces, put a sponge, or cushion. Lay the neck frets down on the sponges/wood, and clamp it in the middle until it is in a back bow. Even though everything is only held together with the clamp, it's easy to pick up and will easily fit in a trunk.

 

That would be warpedneck.com. I've used them twice, and they are excellent and not pricey. The most expensive part of what they do is the shipping.

 

If you have too much relief with the truss rod loose, how much do you have when You tighten it?

 

Ive seen this video referenced here a couple times in threads about this:



Ive never done it, but you only need a clamp and small blocks of wood. If you're gonna leave it in the trunk just clamp it to a 2×4 instead of a workbench.

 

I think a 2-by would work. If you're concerned the board would flex screw 2 together and clamp on the edge side.

 

A 4ft level, if you have one would work. Metal would be preferable but I have a plastic one that might be sturdy enough. With lumber prices these days, a level might be cheaper then a 2 x 4!

 

I'd have reservations about using a 2 X 4. Pine is softer than maple and easier to bow. If you are giving pine serious consideration, I'd jump up to a 4 X 4, or at least a 2 X 4 doubled up and glued and screwed together.

 

One 2x4 won't flex. The neck flexes into a back bow long before the board does when you clamp it.

 

I've used just one 2x4, and the neck always flexes long before the 2x4 does.