[Davomite]

I posted this in another thread, and just thought I'd make it easier to find. Plus I can't sleep so enjoy ...

Hi I'm David the final inspector at Gibson Memphis. I can give you the factory spec info. on our setups. You will need a mechanics rule to do this properly.

To check neck relief: fret the low E at the first and 15th fret (not 12th) reach to the 7th fret and tap string. There should be a small space between string and fret - no thicker than a piece of paper. Do the same with the high E.
ACTION: fret low E at first fret and measure the distance from the bottom of the to the top of the 15th fret. It should be 5/64". Do the same with the high E, measurement should be 3/64". Now measure the string height at the nut; underside of the string to the top of the fret. Low E and A should measure 2/64", D and G =1.5/64" and B and high E = 1/64". If string height at nut is correct, recheck string height at 12th fret with strings open. Measurement for low and high E's should be the same as measurement taken at the 15th.

Pickups: Fret low E at 22nd fret and measure pickup height from underside of string to point on pickup closest to string. Bridge pickup should be 3/64", neck pickup should be 4/32". Fret high E at 22nd fret, distance for both pickups should be 3/32".

Play test: Play every string at every fret checking for buzzes. Bend High E string 1 and 1/2 steps, beginning at the sixth fret and ending at 22nd, checking for "choking" and to make sure string stays in nut notch.

[charliechitlins]

Cool!
Thanks.

[MatthewStreet]

Dave ,you were the first to mention the the 59 335 coming out ,but what is the difference between the 50 anniversary 58 model and the 59 model ?

[anfontan]

Great info there Dave, I'll use that on my old 'Paul'-it's needing a setup soon anyway! Is this the same rule of thumb on the Epi's as well?

[tazzboy]

Yes that is good if want to do it yourself.

[64sg]

Thanks for the info Dave. I have another set up question. What is the approximate string break angle over the saddles on an SG with a Maestro vibrola? The reason I ask is the former owner of my SG installed a Bigsby on my guitar. He chose the wrong model and the break angle is very shallow. I have been considering how to increase the angle if that might improve the tone and sustain.

[risg]

Is there any way to obtain the setup specification for the ’72 Les Paul Bass? The link below is to the model I have.

1972 Les Paul Bass

I’m interested in the factory spec for the:

• Neck relief and whether the 7th fret space is based on the 1st and 12th fret or the 1st and 15th fret.
• Saddle height by string (two-point Tune-O-Matic bridge) I’m looking at the individual saddles and it appears these may have been switched. They are setup in an arch with the G and E lower than the D and A. My understanding is that the saddles should get progressively higher going from G to E.
• Action (height of strings at various frets)
• String to pickup height.

Also, is there a wiring diagram for the electronics?

[Malikon]

Originally Posted by Davomite

I posted this in another thread, and just thought I'd make it easier to find. Plus I can't sleep so enjoy ...

Hi I'm David the final inspector at Gibson Memphis. I can give you the factory spec info. on our setups. You will need a mechanics rule to do this properly.

To check neck relief: fret the low E at the first and 15th fret (not 12th) reach to the 7th fret and tap string. There should be a small space between string and fret - no thicker than a piece of paper. Do the same with the high E.
ACTION: fret low E at first fret and measure the distance from the bottom of the to the top of the 15th fret. It should be 5/64". Do the same with the high E, measurement should be 3/64". Now measure the string height at the nut; underside of the string to the top of the fret. Low E and A should measure 2/64", D and G =1.5/64" and B and high E = 1/64". If string height at nut is correct, recheck string height at 12th fret with strings open. Measurement for low and high E's should be the same as measurement taken at the 15th.

Pickups: Fret low E at 22nd fret and measure pickup height from underside of string to point on pickup closest to string. Bridge pickup should be 3/64", neck pickup should be 4/32". Fret high E at 22nd fret, distance for both pickups should be 3/32".

Play test: Play every string at every fret checking for buzzes. Bend High E string 1 and 1/2 steps, beginning at the sixth fret and ending at 22nd, checking for "choking" and to make sure string stays in nut notch.

I suppose you need a capo on the first fret? Or three arms?

[risg]

thanks, but your post sounds like the setup for a Guitar. I'm looking for the same information on a Les Paul Bass

[Rick Winfield]

Good to know you're "here", Davomite
thanks for the "professional" info
Rick