Ric 4003 truss rod/name plate question

[C_Meeker]

I bought my 4003 fireglo new and have adjusted the truss rods a few times over the years. Seems I'm always working out an underbow. Now I've gotten it to the perfect spot for me, again, where the neck is perfectly straight with no buzzes, and it plays better than ever (the bridge is also at its lowest point)... only problem is that the nuts are down far enough that the name plate is bowing over them when I put it back on, and I don't know that tightening these babies any more is going to be a good idea. What happens if the neck starts to underbow again? Can I get the neck and rods reset by someone?

Thanks in advance for any advice...
Chris

[rickenbrother]

Hi Chris, I'm not sure I completely understand what you mean when you say, "only problem is that the nuts are down far enough that the name plate is bowing over them when I put it back on."
Do you have any pictures of what's going on there?
Where are you located? Maybe a forumite can help.

[C_Meeker]

Notice how the name plate is not sitting flush? Its resting on the nuts, which are tightened to the point where their edges are higher than the headstock profile...

[ken_j]

The rods are most likely bent outward.

[C_Meeker]

Suggestions?

[bassduke49]

It could be that the degree of tightening has caused the bottom ends of the truss rods with their acorn nuts and possibly washers (near the body) to squeeze their way upward (toward the headstock), burrowing into the channels. This brings the rods upwards, too, enough that the top ends protrude from the adjustment cavity and lift the TRC. If that is the case, it may be time to have a pro who knows Ricks have a look. It may mean shortening the truss rods and reinforcing the butt end of the truss channels; again, best done by a pro.

[rickenbrother]

Chris, I'd give you some suggestions, but I think it's best you leave it to someone who's experienced. A pro as Paul Boyer suggests.

[C_Meeker]

Thanks for the advice. I know just the guy! Here in Rochester we have The House of Guitars. Their guitar tech has built custom guitars, basses, even double necks and knows Ricks well. I'll bring it to him and see what he says.

Again, thanks for the advice.

Chris