To adjust the tension rods in models with access at the
headstock, please refer to
figs. 13 & 14
.
First, using a small phillips
head screwdriver, remove
the cover screw and cover
from the adjustment pocket
as show in fig. 13.
Please
note the strings in theses
photos have been removed
for clarity
.
Next, securely insert the
Ovation Adjustment Wrench
(#950033-X, available from
your Dealer) and turn the
wrench in the direction
shown in fig. 14 to correct
warp. Turn the wrench in
the opposite direction to
correct bow.
Kaman Bar
TM
Adjustment
To adjust a Roundback with a Kaman Bar, find the Kaman
Bar adjustment located at the heel of the neck on the inside
of the bowl. Reaching inside the guitar, place the Ovation
Adjustment Wrench (#950033-X, available from your Dealer)
on the tension rod
adjustment nut as
shown in
fig. 15
.
T h e a d j u s t m e n t
socket is located just
beneath the guitar
top. Be certain the
adjustment wrench is
securely in position.
Clockwise rotation
of the tension rod
adjustment as shown
in
fig. 15,
will increase the tension to correct a warped
condition. Use the previously outlined procedure to check your
20
Fig. 15
Fig. 13
Fig. 14
Hex Wrench
21
adjustment. Make sure that you do not overtighten the tension
rod and lose the clearance at the 5th fret. Counterclockwise
rotation of the adjustment nut will loosen the tension rod until
the proper clearance can be seen at the 5th fret.
SPECIAL NOTE: The Kaman Bar adjustment is very sensitive.
One half turn on the nut when the rod is under tension will
produce a significant change at the first fret, so turn it
conservatively and check the neck frequently as you adjust it.
Tension Rod on Rear Access Models
For Ovation models, like the Elite product line, access
to the tension rod adjustment is via the access panel on
the back of the bowl.
The access panel has
a screw in the center of
the access door. Loosen
the screw until the panel
can first be slid to one
side, then to the other,
to remove it. Take care
not to completely remove
the screw. Reverse the
procedure to replace the door.
In all other respects, proceed as for other Kaman Bar models.
Note that these models require a longer handled adjustment
wrench, (#950059-X).
Model Specific Issues and Info
Models with Rubbed Urethane Oil Necks
A rubbed urethane neck finish is available on some Ovation
models. If your guitar has such a feature, you will notice a
natural wood feel on the neck. It requires a slightly more
rigorous maintenance regime than a gloss finished neck,
but we're sure you'll be pleased with the results. If you play
daily, apply a commercially available wax following the
manufacturer's usage instructions approximately once a
month. We recommend the following widely available brands
that you should be able to find in most hardware stores:
Fig. 16
