What you'll need

• Hex key
• Patience
• Screwdriver

Step 1 – Evaluate the neck

Start by holding down the top e string at both the 1st fret and the 14th fret and at the same time check the gap between the string and the 6th fret. A gap around the size of a business card is good, any smaller or bigger and you probably want to adjust the neck.

Step 2 – Find the truss rod

Access to the truss rod is usually where the neck and head of the guitar meet. Some guitars have covers over the truss rod, which can be easily removed by unscrewing them. You will probably want to loosen the middle strings to get them out of the way while you work.

If you are unlucky, you may have a guitar whose truss rod is adjusted from the between the neck and the body. If this is the case, you are best off visiting a guitar luthier who can adjust it for you.

Step 3 – Adjust the truss rod

To adjust the truss rod, first find the appropriate size hex key.

Turning the rod clockwise will tighten it, which will cause the neck to straighten, reducing the distance between the string and the fret.

Turning the rod counter-clockwise will loosen it, causing the neck to gain more relief and increase the distance between the string and the fret.

Adjust accordingly. Only turn the rod 1 or 2 quarter turns at a time, any more and it could cause damage to the neck.

Step 4 – Wait

Once you’ve turned the truss rod, retune all the strings on your guitar and give the neck around a day to settle. After waiting you can then repeat all the steps until the neck is at the position you prefer. While a business card size gap is good between the 6th fret and the string, it depends on your preference.

Adjust Neck Quiz - How much can you remember?