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Hi all.

I am working on my first build of a Martin HD28 from John at Blues Creek and had a question on the truss rod placement in the neck.

I see that there is a slot at the end of the channel that is large enough for the larger rectangular end of the rod that has the adjustment hole. If I place it completely into the slot the rod will only slightly extend out of the neck.

Is it supposed to fit into the little "shelf" area in the neck block on the guitar?

If so, how are into the neck block area should it extend?

Is it OK for the rod to be short of the end of the channel up at the headstock area?

I am still several steps away from gluing the rod into the channel.

I just like to have my ducks in a row well in advance of the next step.

Thanks for any advice.

you want the rod to be flush to the bottom of the fretboard so if it protrudes a bit out of the neck at the tenon that is perfect.

Thanks John.

I will post a picture later today to give a visual.

While I have you here John. One more.

What degree reamer will I need to use on the bridge in the HD28 kit?

Thanks

you can use a 3 degree . I have 3 and 5 degrees. I am working with a local tool shop that makes reamers .We may be able to supply some if the price is right .
I did find the Grizzly tapers to not perform well . I am using a tapered hand reamer that I used in my old toolmaker days .
john

This is how it fits into the slot in the neck. Should it be sticking out further?

As long as the truss rod us under the plane of the fretboard joint you are good to go. Also be sure you clear the neck block so the wrench can access the adjuster. Also be sure you can do this before you glue in the neck

So the rod should be completely in the channel like the photo?

That is the correct placement. Just make sure you have access to it from the soundhole. You will need a slot in the top of your neck block, and likely a hole drilled in your upper transverse brace.

The bracing in the kit had the access hole. I was just worried that it should be more in the neck block.

Thanks for clearing this up for me John.