Changing string/tuning with Edge Pro bridge

[70Seven]

Ok so I have a question, and I think I already know the answer but since I never did this I thought I'd ask and hope, maybe I'm wrong.

Ok so I want to try bigger gauge strings and try a lower tuning, maybe D or C. The guitar in question has a floating trem of course, its a RG 2550 with Edge Pro bridge. Is there anyway I can do this without messing with the truss rod? I don't feel to good playing around with the truss rod. the guitar is set for 9-42 and always had 9-42 on it. What other string gauge and tuning can I try without needing to adjust the truss rod? I have no problems adjusting the spring in the back.

Thanks.

[Rachmaninoff]

I believe you touch the truss rod only if it's needed.
I'd change the strings and setup the trem and springs, and then wait one day.
It's important to wait because the wood must "get used to" the new tension.
If I'd feel the neck bad (probably), only then I'd mess with the truss rod.

[ryanb]

Yeah, you may or may not have to adjust the truss rod (how much bigger are we talking about?). After you change the strings, you will know whether it needs an adjustment or not -- so you just adjust it. Truss rods aren't the black magic they are made out to be. Just don't get stupid with it. 1/8 turn is probably all you would need. Don't go more than say 1/2 turn or you are probably doing something wrong (or you put really heavy strings on it).

You WILL have to re-setup the bridge after you change the strings.

[70Seven]

Yeah I have no problem setting up the bridge, Its just I have a feeling I'll try heavy gauge and then go back to 9-42. The reason I don't want to mess with my truss rod is because my guitar right now is perfectly set for 9-42 and I'm kinda afraid if I play with the truss rod I won't be able to bring it back to how it is right now, perfect! I have another guitar but that one is also set perfectly to 9-42. Just wondering what can I get away with without using the truss rod, like 10-46 in Eb, 10's in D, or 11 in D ??

[albee1952]

Since most truss rods need adjusting twice a year, I don't see it as a big deal and its a good skill to have. Any time you change gauge or tuning you may alter the tension on the neck and the truss rod gets adjusted to compensate(its all a balancing act between the string pull much in the way that floating trems need the springs to be adjusted when changing string gauge). If you need to tighten the rod, remember how much you turned it(like the wrench went from 11 o'clock to 2 o'clock) and write this on a post-it and stick it somewhere handy.