How to Perform a Neck Reset on a 1955 Martin D-18 Guitar

A neck reset is a crucial procedure that can restore the playability and sound quality of vintage guitars like the 1955 Martin D-18. This process adjusts the angle of the neck, ensuring the strings align properly with the body for optimal action and tone. However, it requires specialized skills, tools, and experience in guitar repair. This guide outlines the process, but it is best left to professional luthiers due to the complexity and risks involved.

Video Tutorial: Watch the Full Neck Reset Process on a Martin D-18

Tools Required

• Heating Iron
• Specialized Knives and Paint Scrapers
• Chisels
• Sandpaper (Various Grits)
• Feeler Gauge
• Clamps
• Steaming Equipment (for Loosening Glue)
• Fretting Tools

Important Considerations

Advanced Skill Required: A neck reset involves altering the guitar’s structure, which requires precision and experience. Mistakes can lead to irreversible damage, affecting both the instrument’s playability and value. Only those with significant experience in luthiery and woodworking should attempt this repair.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Heating the Fingerboard

• Warm the Fingerboard: Heat the tongue of the fingerboard to about 200-250°F using a heating iron. This softens the glue, making it easier to separate the fingerboard from the neck without causing damage.

2. Loosening the Fingerboard

• Gently Separate the Fingerboard: Use reshaped paint scrapers or specialized knives to carefully work underneath the heated area. Proceed slowly to avoid damaging the delicate wood, especially around the joint.

3. Removing the Fret

• Access the Neck Joint: Remove the fret located directly above the neck joint. This allows access for the next step, where steam will be introduced to loosen the glue in the joint.

4. Steaming Off the Neck

• Apply Steam to the Joint: Insert a small tube into the exposed joint and introduce steam to loosen the glue holding the neck to the body. This step must be done carefully and quickly to avoid excessive moisture exposure, which can damage the surrounding wood.

5. Adjusting the Neck Angle

• Modify the Neck Angle: With the neck removed, carefully shave small amounts of wood from the heel to adjust the neck’s angle. This adjustment is critical for achieving the correct string height (action). The process requires precise calculations to ensure the optimal angle is restored.

6. Re-fitting the Neck

• Test and Adjust Fit: Dry-fit the neck back onto the guitar body to ensure a snug, gap-free connection. This may involve shimming or additional adjustments to achieve a perfect fit.

7. Reattaching the Fingerboard

• Glue the Fingerboard: Once satisfied with the neck angle and fit, reapply adhesive to reattach the fingerboard to the neck. Make sure the alignment is accurate before clamping the fingerboard in place until the glue sets.

8. Refinishing

• Touch-Up Affected Areas: Sand and refinish any areas that have been affected by the repair, aiming to match the original finish of the guitar as closely as possible. This step helps maintain the instrument’s aesthetic integrity.

9. Restringing and Setup

• Re-string and Adjust: Install new strings and perform a detailed setup, adjusting the truss rod, saddle height, and intonation as needed. This ensures the guitar plays smoothly and retains its classic sound quality.

Best Practices and Tips

• Use Heat Sparingly: Excess heat can cause the wood or binding to warp. Apply heat gradually to avoid damaging the fingerboard or neck.
• Precision Is Key: Small adjustments to the neck angle can have a big impact on the guitar’s playability. Use feeler gauges and take time to ensure precise measurements.
• Work Slowly: This process requires patience. Rushing can lead to mistakes that are difficult to correct and may permanently alter the guitar’s structure.

Performing a neck reset on a vintage Martin D-18 can restore its original playability and tone, making it an investment in preserving the instrument's value. However, due to the precision required, it’s recommended to leave this procedure to professional luthiers unless you have the necessary expertise.

Need Professional Help? Contact West Music for expert assistance with your guitar repair needs. Our experienced luthiers are here to ensure your vintage instruments receive the care and precision they deserve.