Question about neck angle on Taylor Big Baby

[Gerardo Pavone]

Hi ! I have a new Taylor Big Baby. The action is OK (3.5/32 inch low E and 2.5/32inch high E) but I noticed that the saddle has been cut a bit lower than usual, therefore if I want to lower the action a bit more I am not sure that there will be enough room to have a good break angle at the saddle.

After looking at Frank Ford's neck angle tutorial, I placed a 24 inches straight ruler on the middle of the neck and I noticed that it does not clear the bridge, but it touches it just below, about  2/32 of an inch below.

I also measured the height from the top to the low E close to the bridge, and instead of being half an inch as recommended, it is, again, around 2/32 of an inch lower. See uploaded photos.

I know that it is just a little discrepancy compared to the ideal measurement, and I'd like to know if you think that it is inside the normal tolerance (i.e. the neck is fine) or if instead you suggest to have the neck slightly shimmed.

Thank you in advance for your assistance !

[Hesh Breakstone]

The action that you are seeing and let's use 64th" so that we are all on the same page is OK for mediums but a tad high for 12's.  For 12's 4/64th" for the high e and 6/64th" for the low e is a pretty good set-up.

The neck angle is a tad low and since it's a Taylor it's a breeze to shim.

[Gerardo Pavone]

The closest Taylor authorized repair is Elderly in Lansing, one hr and a half drive.

My question is: if I can live with the 5/64 and 7/64 action, can I leave the neck angle as it is or should I still shim it ?

Thanks.

[Hesh Breakstone]

We are Taylor authorized (Martin too) and in Ann Arbor if you need assistance.  As to if YOU can live with the high action that's very much up to you.  If we can help you let us know - Ann Arbor Guitars

[David Farmer]

Remember, how the straight edge reads neck angle depends on fingerboard relief.

[Gerardo Pavone]

David, you are right and yes, I made sure that the neck was straight before measuring the neck angle !

[Gerardo Pavone]

Hesh, it is great to know that you are in Ann Arbor ! My son graduated there, it is a wonderful place. I will call in the next weeks to make an appointment and I will bring the Big Baby. I must wait for a day off work because I see that you are closed on week-ends ! Tanks again, Gerardo

[Hesh Breakstone]

Looking forward to it Gerado!