Truss rod adjustment

[jsntg]

I have 1980 Squire Strat with a way too much bow in the neck. I removed the neck to adjust the rod. The phillips slotted nut is at the body end of the neck. Counterclockwise rotation will disconnect it from the rod. I'm guessing clockwise rotation is the direction I should be turning to straighten but no joy. I'm applying approximately 50 pounds of torque. Should it be turning? If so, do I need to apply more torque (required amount?). Do rods ever lock up (bond to the wood)? If so, what's the best way to free them?

Thanks in advance,


Hugh

[Vizcaster]

OK torque is not the issue. Trussrod adjustments are made in 1/8 or 1/4 turn increments so you want to go about that much clockwise from where you were -wherever that was (sounds like you turned it enough to remove the nut from the rod then tried again). When the nut is snugged on, turn it slightly and it should result in an adjustment of the neck curvature/relief. If not, it's possible that you bottomed out on the threads and you should not force it. Put a thin washer under the nut as a shim and try again; that should gain about another turn which should be more than enough adjustment.

[mwaym]

Be real careful. I was tweaking a '70 Yamaha acoustic, and broke the truss rod right off at the threads.... I made a new one and she plays real good now..... but, what a pain !!!!!!!