Musical Instrument Repairer how-to

How to Set Up an Electric Guitar

Setup makes guitars play well.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Setup makes guitars play well. In short: adjust; set; adjust, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Adjust the truss rod.

  2. Set string height.

  3. Adjust intonation.

  4. Check frets.

  5. Adjust pickups.

  6. Restring.

Safety reminders for musical instrument repairers

  • Use torches safely
  • Ventilate finishes
  • Handle tools carefully
  • Lift pianos with help

Bench · Apprentice · Commission · Estimate · Portfolio · Regulation: see the full musical instrument repairer glossary.

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