ASSESSING THE PROBLEM

INITIAL CHECKS

CONDITION

The overall condition of an instrument tells us so much more beyond the obvious scratches, dings and dents. With regular care and maintenance there should be little wrong with your guitar – or indeed one you’re thinking of buying. Conversely, you might be looking at a used guitar in a bag, covered in dust with crusty strings and the explanation that “it’s been in the loft/garage/shed for years”. Potentially not good at all. So find out as much as you can about the history of a guitar if you’re thinking of buying it. Also consider that while “I gigged it for years” might suggest some fretwear and even fingerboard wear, not to mention well-used pots or even a duff pickup, it could likely be a positive – a guitar is well-used for a reason.

WHAT TO DO? Whether the instrument is brand-new or in a poor state, quickly check it over and dig for a bit of background.

TUNERS

Check the tuners. Are they stiff or sloppy? If they’re stiff, a small drop of oil on the open gears or in the hole on