Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Mark,
I was referring to the treble side. Looking down the neck from the bridge towards the headstock the neck is twisted clockwise slightly at the nut. The relief on the treble side is just about right, the relief on the bass side almost zero. I have read that on the old truss rods you need to loosen them both, then move the neck manually to the desired position and then tighten the truss rods to hold that position. Do I need a clamping device to hold it while I tighten them? Will it move right back to where it was? Will the rods slide out if I tghten them? Please elaborate on the process.
I know it's nothing like my newer truss rods on my Taylor and Stratocaster. I have searched on your previous posts and read them and I'm still a little unclear about the old truss rods. Thanks!

You do NOT need to loosen them both, in fact you don't need to loosen anything at all unless that's the direction you are adjusting. What I usually do is clamp the body to a table, letting the neck hang into space. While sighting, move the neck beyond where you really it to be, maybe double the distance. Then snug the rod up tight to hold it, expecting it to snap back a bit from where you're holding it.

You can do this with your knees, books stacked on the guitar, or another person holding the body, whatever you have available and works for you.

The main point is DON'T MAKE THE TRUSS RODS DO THE MOVING- you do that and use the rod only to hold it where you want it.

All of this applies only to the pre Sept 1984 truss rods, as afterwards the rods are capable of moving the neck themselves. It's still not a bad idea though to help them by pushing the neck, no matter the brand.

Thanks John,
Sounds like what I need to do is leave the treble side truss rod alone, twist the neck beyond the desired position, and tighten the bass side truss rod. I will try it and respond back.
Thanks again!
Patrick

John,
The neck dialed in nicely, actually had to tighten the treble side more than the bass side. Ended up with .009 relief on the treble side and .01 on the bass side. This also helped clear up a slight buzz on the 3rd string as well. In addition the 3rd string bridge saddle needed some slotting work. Now she really rings, it is amazing how much better she is.
Thanks,
Patrick