Once you’ve measured everything correctly,
setup and adjustment tools are what let you make the changes that matter.
These tools don’t tell you what’s wrong — they let you fix it.
Action height, neck relief, intonation, and tuning stability all depend on having the right tools
to make small, controlled adjustments without damaging parts or chasing problems in circles.
This guide focuses specifically on setup and adjustment tools used during electric guitar kit builds,
how they’re used, and why precision matters at this stage.
For a broader view of setup and measurement as a system, start with the main guide:
Measuring & Setup Tools for Electric Guitar Kits.
Why Adjustment Tools Matter After Measurement
Measurement gives you clarity.
Adjustment tools give you control.
Many beginner frustrations happen when builders try to:
-
Adjust action without measuring first
-
Force hardware instead of fine-tuning it
-
Use the wrong tool for a sensitive adjustment
Good setup tools are designed to:
-
Make small changes
-
Apply even pressure
-
Avoid stripping screws or damaging hardware
That’s what turns measurements into results.
Core Setup & Adjustment Tools You’ll Use
Hex Keys (Allen Wrenches)
Hex keys are used constantly during setup.
They’re commonly required for:
-
Truss rod adjustments
-
Saddle height changes
-
Some bridge and tremolo adjustments
Use the correct size — forcing a close fit is how truss rods and saddle screws get damaged.
Screwdrivers (Proper Sizes Matter)
Basic, but critical.
Screwdrivers are used to:
-
Adjust saddle position for intonation
-
Set pickup height
-
Tighten or loosen hardware during setup
A well-fitting tip prevents stripped screws and keeps adjustments smooth and repeatable.
Nut Slot Files (or Safe Alternatives)
Nut height has a major impact on playability, especially in the first few frets.
Nut slot files are used to:
-
Lower string height at the nut
-
Improve tuning stability
-
Reduce first-fret sharpness
If you don’t have dedicated files, safe substitutes can work —
but they require patience and restraint.
String Action Gauge
An action gauge makes string height adjustments predictable instead of subjective.
It’s used to:
-
Set action at the bridge
-
Compare bass and treble side height
-
Repeat setups consistently
This is especially helpful if you ever re-setup the guitar later.
Electronic Tuner (For Intonation Work)
Accurate intonation depends on a reliable tuner.
During setup, tuners are used to:
-
Compare open strings to fretted notes
-
Adjust saddle position
-
Confirm stability after changes
Built-in clip tuners work, but accuracy matters more than convenience here.
When Setup Tools Come Into Play
Adjustment tools are used after the guitar is assembled but before it’s considered playable.
Typical stages include:
-
Truss rod adjustment for neck relief
-
Action height setup at the bridge
-
Nut height fine-tuning
-
Intonation adjustment
-
Pickup height balancing
Each step builds on the last — rushing one usually causes problems later.
Setup Tools vs Measuring Tools — Different Jobs
Measuring tools show you where you are.
Setup tools let you change it.
Trying to adjust without measuring leads to guessing.
Measuring without adjusting leads to frustration.
Used together, they make setup logical instead of mysterious.
Once your measurements are set, these setup and adjustment tools are what turn numbers
into real playability — helping your electric guitar kit feel finished instead of “almost right.”
Final Thoughts…
You don’t need a huge tool collection to set up a guitar properly —
but you do need the right tools for sensitive adjustments.
Good setup tools:
-
Protect your hardware
-
Make changes predictable
-
Reduce trial-and-error
-
Help your guitar feel finished, not “almost right”
When setup becomes controlled and repeatable,
building guitar kits stops feeling risky and starts feeling satisfying.
Ready to Start Adjusting Your Tone?
Check out our other guides:
If you’re new to guitar kits:
Start with Step-by-Step Guide To Building Your First Electric Guitar Kit and Essential Tools Every Electric Guitar Kit Builder Should Have.
If you already own a kit guitar:
Jump into How To Properly Set Up Your Electric Guitar Kit For Intonation or Fixing Common Problems: Buzzing And Dead Frets.
If you’re chasing better tone:
Head to Understanding Humbucker Vs Single Coil Pickups In Kits or Playing With Tone Controls: Tips For Electric Guitar Kits and start experimenting.
Your Guitar, Your Build, Your Sound
You don’t need a custom shop or a tech on speed dial.
All you need is a little guidance, some patience, and a place to go that shows you what to do next.
Come on man… You got this.
GuitarCrafts is here to help you along the way.
Craft it. Play it. Own it!
Ready to take your guitar passion beyond the workbench?
See how I built GuitarCrafts.com using the training at Wealthy Affiliate — you can do the same.
Build Your First Website With Wealthy Affiliate (Free)
