Quickstep192 - Posted - 11/20/2009:  09:49:25

I've just read the instructions for installing the dual acthin StewMac Hot RodŽ.
If I'm understanding this correctly, it's held in only by silicone sealant applied to just the brass nuts that join the two rods at each end? AND,,,, that's really just to prevent rattling? Am I missing something?

banjotef - Posted - 11/20/2009:  11:09:02

That is correct. Eric Sullivan told me they use the same rod in their production banjos, and they don't put ANYTHING in the slot, it's just held in by the fretboard.

uncle.fogey - Posted - 11/20/2009:  14:21:19

I installed one recently - I used the bass length one for a longneck and it works great! It's a bit heavy.
The silicone is to prevent rattling, and I think they might rattle, but you also want to allow the rods to move in the slot - so you want it to move, but not to rattle - a little tricky. They warn you not to get glue in the slot,because that would bind the thing up, and they recommend putting the silicone in there for that reason.

I would NOT just glue it and let glue ooze in the slot. I think it could compromise the way the rod works, plus if it doesn't work right, who ya gonna call? You'd have to take the fingerboard off to see why it doesn't work, and they're TELLING you to put silicone in there. Silicone is one idea, even a strip of heavy kraft paper or tyvek would work. I stuck a little strip of paper over the rod and was careful with the glue.