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  #1  
Old 12-02-2015, 03:39 PM
peteathome peteathome is offline
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Default Looking at a used 12 string..

Hello,
I have a chance to buy a 1972 Alvarez 5021 12 string from the local Craigslist. The price is right, and from the pictures I've seen, it *looks* like it's in good condition. I am going to look at it Friday.

I've read enough on here to know that if the bridge is separating from the top, it's a no go. I've also read that if it needs a neck reset, it's also a no go.

My question is: How does one determine if it might need a neck reset? Any other pointers would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Pete
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71 Harmony Sovereign
Taylor AD27e
Yamaha FG-260 12 String
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Rogue Mandolin
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  #2  
Old 12-02-2015, 03:50 PM
1Charlie 1Charlie is offline
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A neck reset is indicated when:

1. The amount of saddle protruding from the top of the bridge is only a sliver.

2. The action at the 12th fret is high.

3. The truss rod has been adjusted so that there is no relief in the neck.

The best way to tell is to take a 2-foot straight-edge with you when you look at the guitar. Place it on the fretboard, on edge, and slide it down to the bridge. It should contact the bridge, near or at its top edge. If it strikes the front of the bridge, a neck reset is likely.

Some guitar owners will try to ward off a neck rest by shaving wood off of the bridge. It will pass the straight-edge test but the neck angle is still shallow. The bottom of the D string should be close to 1/2" off of the top. If it is shorter, I would question whether the bridge is still at its original height.

When in doubt, take it a luthier, and only buy with an iron-clad return policy.
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Old 12-02-2015, 04:02 PM
Brucebubs Brucebubs is offline
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Great advice from 1Charlie.
It's a 43 year old 12-string guitar.
It might be perfect but it might also have problems.
You were wise to ask about it.
Check that the bridge isn't pulling up (lifting) from the back or pushed down (submarined) at the front.
Cracks can sometimes start at the nut slot and run down the sides of the neck.
Do the bridge pins still fit neatly in the holes after 43 years of use?
Are the tuners still easy to use, not too loose or tight?
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1972 - Takamine D-70
2014 - Alvarez ABT60 Baritone
2015 - Kittis RBJ-195 Jumbo
2012 - Dan Dubowski#61
2018 - Rickenbacker 4003 Fireglo
2020 - Gibson Custom Shop Historic 1957 SJ-200
2021 - Epiphone 'IBG' Hummingbird
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  #4  
Old 12-02-2015, 06:05 PM
peteathome peteathome is offline
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Excellent advice and thanks to both of you. I can live with minor stuff, but not a neck or bridge problem.
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Pete
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71 Harmony Sovereign
Taylor AD27e
Yamaha FG-260 12 String
Yamaha FG-730S
Rogue Mandolin
Applecreek Dulcimer

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