Signature Models

[Kenny B]

I recently purchased an ebony 3-pu "Captain" Kirk Douglas. It was perfect when I got it. Set up was great. I broke a high e string at the nut and decided to just change them.
Now the intonation is out. Not too much.

I would love any tips on restringing with the vibrola.
I'm going to just say it, taking all the strings off at once, was a bad Idea!

now the action is too high at the 12th not sure what it should be.
I did put my usual 52-10. maybe that's a factor? I'm at a loss
it did relax a bit. but. The Vibrola bar hits the Master Tone button.

any assistance would be appreciated.
-

 

[Go Nigel Go]

I am going to guess that the 52-10 string set are a heavier gauge than what was on it. This can put more tension on the neck which pulls more neck relief into the neck curve. That can raise the action, and change every aspect of the string geometry and throw intonation off slightly. IF (and I do mean IF) this is what happened, a further set up starting with the truss rod and nut slot adjustment may be required if you wish to continue with that string gauge. The other option would be to go back to the original string gauge. Selecting the desired string gauge is the first step to getting the final proper set up, so I would start there. Try the strings you have on it, ignoring the intonation and other issues for a few days, and just decide if the feel of the heavier strings is what you want. Then either change the strings or do the set up for the heavier gauge. 042-009s is a much more common string size for SG players based on polls here and elsewhere. That isn't to say heavier gauges aren't preferred by many fine players, just that you may need to change the final set up for best results.

 

[An Abiding Dude]

I agree with everything Nigel said. I'd add that if you're not sure what you're doing (adjusting neck tension, nut slots, etc.) find yourself a pro luthier and pay for a proper set up. Definitely worth it in the long run and you don't have to worry about accidentally harming a beautiful, expensive instrument.

 

[PermissionToLand]

Yeah, Gibson uses 10-46 gauge from the factory. I'm surprised the difference is noticeable, but it would indeed pull the vibrola arm down a bit more and slim taper necks can be sensitive. Probably just needs a slight truss rod and intonation tweak.

 

[Decadent Dan]

I’m 90% sure the intonation is out in your photo. That’s how it comes from the factory, still needing fine tuning adjustment.

 

[Kenny B]

Thank you for all the input. Greatly appreciated. It did come with a set up.
This coming week, I will do some tweaking and let you know how I made out.
I have worked on necks before and I have basic luthier tools and knowledge.
:)

 

[Kenny B]

This photo is when I first got it.
It played like butter out of the case.

 

[An Abiding Dude]

This photo is when I first got it.
It played like butter out of the case.

For $2,500+ it better play like all kinds of dairy-based lubricants!

 

[Kenny B]

For $2,500+ it better play like all kinds of dairy-based lubricants!

Absolutely! I love it!