Set neck relief to a consistent, repeatable measurement. 

Note that measurements of 0.020″ and under are most accurately done with string feeler gauges.  A slight bend from a b-string means you’re at the sweet spot.

How to do it

• Fret first and last frets
• Measure at 7th (acoustic) or 8th (electric)

Key measurement

• B-string clipping (~0.011–0.012″)
• Target slight deflection (~0.010″)

Measure — don’t guess.

What you’re doing
Set proper string height at the nut for clean playability.

How to do it

• Fret at highest fret (at body)
• Check clearance at the first fret (~0.020″ – 0.015″)
• Use only professional nut files
• Angle slot toward tuner post
• Slightly round back slot edges

Set primary playing action at the 12th fret for most, 17th for bass, S-style & T-styles.

How to do it

• Measure string height at the 12th fret
• Adjust saddles (electric) or saddle height (acoustic)

Make controlled, measured adjustments.

Balance output and string response.

• Fret at last (highest) fret
• Adjust pickups relative to string height
• Check volume balance across strings

Ensure pickups will adjust before removing strings. This way, you can replace foam or springs before installing new strings.

Complete all work that requires full access to the instrument.

• Check frets for issues
• Perform fretwork if needed
• Polish frets
• Clean and condition fretboard
• Replace pickup foam if needed
• Clean body under strings

Install strings and stabilize tuning.

• Install strings winding downward on tuner post
• Gradually increase tension
• Tune to pitch
• Stretch along entire length of each string
• Retune & repeat until stable

Match fretted 12th fret note to the octave of the open string.

• Compare open string to fretted 12th
• Adjust saddle position

Compare the fretted note with the open note.

If possible, allow instrument to rest over night, so we catch any neck movement.

Record final measurements:

• relief
• nut height
• action
• pickup height
• Confirm all targets met

Document results for repeatability

Verify that the instrument performs as expected in real playing conditions

• Verify critical measurements
• Play across entire fretboard
• Check for buzz, dead spots
• Confirm tuning stability

This must be done by someone other than the tech who did the work.