If you have just purchased your instrument new from a store, then it should have all the necessary tools with it for making these adjustments. These tools generally consist of some type of wrench for adjusting the truss rod, the rod that runs through the neck. With instruments that have adjustable bridges or adjustable neck sets (generally electrics), wrenches for making these adjustments should also be included.

If you find them missing, go back and ask the dealer if they have them. (NOTE: Not all new instruments are shipped with these tools.) If your instrument is used, it may have long since lost its tools. In this case, take the guitar to your local music store to see if they have replacements or find what you need at the hardware store.

Besides these, you will probably need to purchase a medium to small phillips and/or flat head screw driver and some medium grit sand paper. For some adjustments, you may need special files or other tools. We will address these as we talk about each adjustment.

So let’s get started.....