USA Fender Telecaster Tuning problems

A really nice Tele’ but the owner’s unhappy as it won’t stay in tune.

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There is always the problem with the standard Tele’ bridge.  The Intonation is always a compromise so I’m going to change them for a compensated set…

SANYO DIGITAL CAMERA  With the strings off I’ve had a good look at the machine heads.  They seem fine to me, perhaps a little backlash, so long as you tune up to tone rather than down I can’t see why they should cause any problems.SANYO DIGITAL CAMERA

While the strings are off I’ve given the fret-board a good clean.  It wasn’t bad but I did get some dirt off…

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With the new strings fitted a standard setup is all that’s needed.  Step one, the action at the 1st fret which was spot on…

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next the curve, or set, in the neck.  Just a little high…

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so a quick turn on the truss-rod…

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Then the action height at the 12th fret…

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Setting the two outside “E” strings first…..

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With the outside strings set I’ll then set the remaining strings…..

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so that they mimic the curve of the fret-board… SANYO DIGITAL CAMERA

Lastly adjust the intonation.  With the compensated saddles there is far less of a compromise…..

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In fact they were pretty well spot on….

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All that’s needed is a quick bit of spit and polish and job done….

A last word from the owner…

“Fantastic service! The guitars have never played better. Perfect action, great tone and all done in under a week. Will be sure to return in the near future.”

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