I currently have a 2008 USA Standard Strat that I have been rebuilding and want to replace the current neck (Maple/Rosewood) with a Warmoth Pro CBS 70's version (Maple/Maple). I have been saving a ton of money by learning how to do most adjustments and modifications myself, but I have never replaced a neck. Typical neck replacement charges in my area run around $100+, and I can find better use for that money. I have found good information and instructions on how to do it, but would like to hear from someone who has done it before, so that I can avoid any pitfalls. For example, after you install the neck, are truss rod adjustments always necessary? Are there any tips concerning stringing it up for the first time? Does the type of tuners you use play into any adjustments (I will be using Schaller Mini Locking Tuners). I plan on staying with 9-42 string gauge. Any guidance will be very much appreciated.

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September 18th, 1970
There were none better before him.
There have been none better since.

I'm watching this thread as I'm doing the same neck (!) on a left handed mex Strat. Almost a given we'll need to tweak the rod and perhaps shim the neck in the pocket - not sure how you know if that needs to be done or not. I figure if i can't get it just right I'll let a luthier have at it - money well spent.

It is not dificult to fit a replacement neck if the neck is the right size for your guitar pocket, but Warmoth write the size I think. And about the holes , you have to do your own ?

You have to alingt the neck staigt to you guitar body.

Truss rod adjustment ; only need when you put strings on it. And take your time with truss rod bolt .
Stringing the first time; nothing special to do.

I suggest you to buy one of the books write by Dan Erlewine, every thing is there. With picture you will learn.
And there are a lots of many good books.

A guitar forum is the the best place if you nee a lots of informations. You can read good and bad information ( incomplete)

I slapped a new Warmoth neck on a refin'd, converted to 4 bolt '76 strat body no problem at all. Got all the parts from Warmoth, had them drill the holes at the heel and everything lined up perfectly.

I've always tinkered with guitars though; removed and re-installed my first neck when I was 12...I'm 40 now. I can understand it being intimidating at first, but it's really one of the easiest things you can mechanically do with a guitar (short of restringing it of course).

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The mind is like a parachute; it doesn't work unless its open-FZ