barchi - Posted - 03/23/2013:  14:30:08

banjohangout.org/archive/151466

This topic was already archived, so I reopen it to ask: Is it necessary to adjust the truss rod if you put nylon strings?

John Gribble - Posted - 03/23/2013:  14:52:51

Depends on the banjo and the tension of the strings you put on.  The major adjustment you'll need to make is to the string slots in the nut and bridge. The slots need to be widened to accommodate the thicker nylon strings.  

BobJJ - Posted - 03/23/2013:  17:24:40

A truss rod should not be used for adjusting action. 

kirbonite - Posted - 03/23/2013:  17:39:06

I agree with Bob..  I think People adjust truss rod sometimes to fix action but the real purpose is to correct the slight backbow needed in the neck in the case of warpage.

For instance, If you had string buzz and all the frets are in good shape, you might want to adjust the truss rod.  otherwise, action should be adjusted by other means such as changing bridges or co rods.. if all else fails, I guess you could shim but I'd use that as a last resource.. just my opinion.  I wish you luck in your quest.  You might want PM Paul Roberts.. He does nylon string things on a tenor.. 

K.

Drivel - Posted - 03/23/2013:  20:39:47

Where, did He say He wanted to do it to adjust the action? Do you all adjust your truss rod with the strings off?

john bange - Posted - 03/23/2013:  20:49:07

truss rod adjustments should be done with strings on and up to pitch...nylon strings shouldn't require an adjustment to the truss rod.  As was stated earlier, the nut slots and possibly a higher bridge are about all that's needed.  There cannot be any burrs or rough spots anywhere near the strings...nut, bridge, tail piece.

John Gribble - Posted - 03/23/2013:  21:39:38

Barchi never said anything about adjusting the action. 

Sometimes with a new gauge/tension string, the truss rod needs adjusting to re-set the proper relief. 

And yes, the rod should be adjusted with the strings on and up to pitch, if possible. There are a few makers who put the rod adjustment at the heel of the neck and the neck has to be taken loose from the rim to be adjusted.  A PITA,  but it makes for a stronger, cleaner-looking peghead. 

barchi - Posted - 03/24/2013:  00:48:15

I put classical guitar strings on my tenor a few months ago. I tuned it DGBE, and it sounded right.

But I was afraid that in the future this change would produce damage in the neck, as I didn't adjust the truss rod. So I returned to steel.

john bange - Posted - 03/24/2013:  06:57:49

won't hurt it at all...you cut the tension almost in half.

barchi - Posted - 03/24/2013:  09:26:28

I've heard terrible stories about necks bending backwards due to changing from steel to nylon.

Maybe nobody has been really a witness to this phenomenon, and it's an ancient legend.

Or maybe it's true.

John Gribble - Posted - 03/24/2013:  23:04:05

If the neck begins to take on a back bow, then you can adjust the truss rod accordingly. It isn't a big issue.

What kind of banjo is it?