Truss Rod Question

[Bob Schmidt]

I am starting my first build. It is an Irish bouzouki with a scale length of 26.375". It joins to the body at the 17th fret So it is a distance of 16.5" from the nut to the body. The 2 sizes offeredby LMI are 15.5" and 18". One would seem too short the other too long. I want to use a 2 way rod, how critical is the length of the rod if I have to have it custom made?

[sunburst]

The rod should go from very near the nut to very near the neck heel. The shorter one should work fine.
Why do you want a 2-way rod?

[Bob Schmidt]

Just for the additional adjustment capability. I have relaxed the rod in my current bouzouki and there is still not enough relief from the 2nd to the 6th fret. Since this is my first build I want to cover the bases the best I can, and I don't see a disadvantage except for a slightly higher cost.

Thanks for your reply.
Bob Schmidt

[sunburst]

If the neck is curly maple (or other highly figured wood) there's a chance that the "backward" adjustment might come in handy, but otherwise, chances are it will never be needed.

[Bob Schmidt]

OK thanks for that. I was not aware that was the case.

Bob Schmidt

[Jim Hilburn]

I'm a proponent of a 2 way rod on a longer neck like an octave or in this case a 26" scale if for no other reason it's easy to install with just one shallow equal depth slot.
Cumberland acoustic has made custom length rods for me, but I oedered more than one. You might check with them.

[Steevarino]

Jim is right. I am currently deep into a batch of close to 100 two-way truss rods for various customers and stock. One more won't hurt, I guess. If you'd like me to make one for you, let me know. I cut and thread my own rods, so I can make them pretty much any length you want.

[Bob Schmidt]

OK thanks, I will give you a call

[Steevarino]

Hey Bob --

Just back from the Post Office. Your truss rod is on its way to you.