Martin Serial Number breakdown-update

Subject: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Feb 25 - 10:40 AM

Hi guys!

I know my D-18 is 2024 (serial 2863508) but is there a way to find out the day and month?


Thanks
Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: gillymor
Date: 15 Feb 25 - 11:12 AM

You might try emailing Martin customer service. They've been pretty good about answering my inquiries in the past.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 15 Feb 25 - 11:25 AM

Thanks gillymor, I'll give it a go :)


Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 15 Feb 25 - 04:09 PM

That’s probably the only way. The commonly available lists, started by the late Mike Longworth, are on the basis of the last instrument produced in any particular year.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 06:06 AM

Thanks Ray,.
I've emailed, just awaiting response.
I know it may seem silly, but I'd like to know when my guitar's birthday is - a set of strings, maybe some polish, you know? Well it was just an idea :)

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: gillymor
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 06:33 AM

I beginning to get the impression that you're kind of fond of your new D-18, Fred. :')
I played mine steadily for about 35 years until the action got way too high and I stuck it in the closet for a couple of decades. I'm glad I got it set right and back out into the world.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 06:56 AM

No idea when the birthday of my D18 is - I bought it over 50 years ago; £190 new!

The only “birthday” I’ve ever found relevant is my own. A luthier friend once advised me that you should change your pre-amp batteries on your birthday so you always knew how old they were.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 07:23 AM

I am fond of it, gillymor.
I've had good guitars before but this is a great one.
It's never had anything done - never needed it.

You know what it's like when you find your dream guitar. Everything else goes on the back burner and it's just you and it. That's how it is for me ànd WILL be for for awhile yet.

Cheers guys

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 10:37 AM

Keep an eye on the body bindings, Fred. My 2012 D-18 is in the shop for its second occurrence of binding separation from the body at the waist. Although binding separation can occur with any guitar from any era, there’s been something of an epidemic since CFM changed the glue used on bindings back in 2012. Binding can shrink, and the new glue has proved not to be man-enough to resist separation.

If you’re a Yank and the original owner, you’re covered by CFM’s Limited Lifetime Warranty for any repairs that may be necessary but, if you’re an ‘alien’ (how I hate the way that horrible term is used to mean ‘anyone who isn’t American), there’s no warranty and you’re on your own.

CFM have steadfastly refused to acknowledge there’s been a problem with bindings falling off their guitars since 2012 which, along with the lack of a warranty for us second-class ‘alien’ customers, is the main reason I will never buy another new Martin (I’ve bought five in the past twenty years).

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 10:58 AM

Thanks Backwoodsman.
No, I'm Lincolnshire born and bred, darkest Colsterworth, a village near Grantham.

If I need repairs, I'd use Dave King, the only UK authorised Martin service centre, though if anyone has recommendations please share.

Kind regards
Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 12:37 PM

Ha! I’m a Yeller-belly too, Fred! Northern Lincs in my case!

Dave King did a fantastic re-finish on the back and sides of my D-18 following heat-damage caused by a different luthier/tech. Dave’s work is top-class! For set-ups etc. I use John LeVoi in Alford, but he doesn’t do nitro finish work.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 01:08 PM

Cheers Backwoodsman.
Never used Dave King but I have used levoit in Alford. He did some work on a Gibson J-200 I had years ago.

Btw, I wonder if you know where "Lincolnshire Yellow belly" came from? It goes all the way back to the Wars of the Roses. Lincolnshire rebels would wear yellow tunics to recognise each other in battle.

All the best

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 02:16 PM

Yep, that’s one of the frequently-given explanations, but there are quite a few others! ;-)

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 05:45 PM

Here's a few other techs I've used with good results:

Steve Curtis (independent workshop inside PMT Manchester)


Jon Haire (Peterborough)

CCGX (London). These guys used to be very good but the last repair they did for me was disappointing.

KGB of Birkenhead I've heard great things about but never used.

But there are some 'techs' out there that are best avoided so beware.

Cheers guys

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,.gargoyle
Date: 16 Feb 25 - 10:22 PM

A dear friend's grandmother played in a band.

Perhaps 30 years ago I sent photos to "The Mandolin Brothers" in New York, NY for appraisal. They identified it as Gibson 1925-6.

I believe it is time for her to sell ... she does not play ... the on-line prices are ten fold what the were back then.

Sincerely,
Gargoyle

small> WTF do you care about the month of date?

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 17 Feb 25 - 06:29 AM

Yes, Backwoodsman, there ARE other explanations, some not very nice. But it's who you are that matters.

I hope shortly to be a Mudcat member. As such, I will share what I've learned about acoustic guitars, gigging and respond in a friendly manner to others, ignoring any nastyness.

Cheers

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 17 Feb 25 - 05:37 PM

No response to email so I've re-sent.
If I have to, make up a day and month lol.


Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 17 Feb 25 - 05:42 PM

Not like the good old days! I once wrote a letter to them enquiring how I could get hold of their “new” book “Martin Guitars a History”. A reply came from Mike Longworth himself.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 17 Feb 25 - 05:56 PM

Wow, bet you were chuffed, Ray.

Martin has replied before and no doubt will this time. I'll update when they do.

Cheers

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 02:26 AM

Did you use the form on the CFM ‘Contact Us’ page on their website, Fred?

https://www.martinguitar.com/contact-us

There’s also a Chatbox on that page. Or you could give them a call (although I’m struggling to find a phone no. for them).

Another method might be to join the Unofficial Martin Guitar Forum (UMGF) and ask your question there, where the real Martin experts hang out…

https://umgf.com/

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 05:14 AM

Yep, I used their 'Contact Us' Backwoodsman
I'm sure they'll respond but they just may be busy dealing with others.

I know about the UMGF. I've been a stalker for some years lol.

Cheers

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 08:16 AM

OK Fred, I just thought the on-line form might be more successful than a direct email. Looks like I was wrong (I remember being wrong once before)! ;-) :-)

The UMGF is a great resource, and they’re a very friendly bunch.

Don’t forget to report back here when you hear from CFM.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 08:50 AM

Oh I appreciate the info Backwoodsman, and I'm hopeful Martin will respond. When they do, I'll update this thread.

Its a cracking guitar, and I feel incredibly lucky to own it.

Cheers

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 10:59 AM

Well I've heard back but nothing to do with my request for info, just asking me for ratings feedback. Bit disappointed to be honest.

I'll just make a day and month up. Not ideal but at least it's something.

Cheers guys

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: gillymor
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 11:14 AM

Fred, hutton99 at UMGF give completion dates on Martins but perhaps only the old stuff. Still, it's a cool source for info on old Martins.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 11:43 AM

Gillymor, I've had a follow-up Martin email. They no longer keep such info.
However, they did say my D-18 left the factory in July 2024, and that work would have started several months before that. That's better :)

All the best

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: gillymor
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 11:45 AM

So, a month-long celebration.Win win.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 12:04 PM

I'll go with 15 July, this being about mid month, and plan a big celebration - strings, polish, microfibre cloths, balloons hanging up, the lot lol.

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 12:33 PM

Thanks for that link, gillymor, very interesting mate cheers.

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 18 Feb 25 - 05:58 PM

Just to be clear, Martin no longer records the stamp date for each individual guitar.

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 04:09 AM

Just so you know, the "contact us" on the Martin website does bring a response - two in my case!

My request for info was dealt with by Scott, their Customer Services Representative.

Cheers

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 05:36 AM

Good news! Glad they came back to you!

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 06:03 AM

Thanks mate. They helped as much as they could and it turned out pretty well.

This D-18 is the best acoustic I've ever had, and I've had many others that sit above it price-wise. This one just rocks :)

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 06:51 AM

Not played mine for years.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 07:22 AM

Is that because you have a guitar you like more, Ray?

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 08:26 AM

I love my D-18 (2012-iteration, one of the first ‘Re-imagined’ models). It’s by no means the most expensive of my guitars, but it’s the most versatile, a real ‘do anything, go anywhere’ kind of guitar. My only grouse is that the binding keeps trying to fall off, but Stuart Palmer in Doncaster is a good guy, he glues it back and doesn’t charge the earth.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 09:16 AM

Backwoodsman, you do monitor the RH, don't you? If the D-18 is in a warm room, that too will have an effect. This is all basic stuff but I'm often surprised to learn that some just don't seem to bother.

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 10:22 AM

Yes, my guitars are always kept at 40-60% RH, I use Oasis and/or Music Nomad in-case humidifiers, and I have room-hygrometers (ThermoPro) and Oasis hygrometers in all four cases.

I've owned five Martins, three Lowdens, a Collings, a Brook, and a McNally over the past twenty-five years, and the D-18 is the only one to have had this problem - as I said earlier, it's a known, well documented glue problem with Martins built since 2012.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 10:59 AM

Sounds like you're doing it right.

I had a J-200 years ago (the one Levoi did some work on). Good guitar but it would never behave. The tech visits were costing a small fortune and I let it go

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 11:59 AM

Several, Fred. I quite like Santa Cruz but I only have three! …. and a dozen or so mandolin type objects.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 12:19 PM

Instrument starvation then, Ray :).

My other instrument is a five-string open-back banjo. Great instrument if you have a bit of tinkering in you.

Fred,

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 12:47 PM

Once had one of those. One of the two instruments I’ve ever sold. Strangely enough, the other one was a second D18.

I accept that I have too many but, if you sell them, it just puts more money in the bank and the question comes as to what to do with it - buy more instruments?

I ran into Paul Brett several years ago. He’d just finished setting up an exhibition with a view to thinning the herd. The subsequent auction, which I couldn’t go to otherwise I may have been tempted, didn’t seem to be much of a success as many of the instruments in the auction went unsold.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown
From: GUEST,Fred
Date: 19 Feb 25 - 02:17 PM

There's nothing wrong with owning many instruments, Ray. I just have a D-18 and a banjo. When I've finished playing one, it's a welcome change to pick up the other.

Fred

Subject: Martin Serial Number Breakdown UPDATE
From: Fred
Date: 04 Mar 25 - 05:26 PM

Hi guys,

I now know exactly when my D-18 left the Martin factory: 11 July 2024.

I knew the month and year from earlier emails to Martin but I was short of a day of the month.

Thanks Scott at Martin Customer Services - good sluethjng! :)

Fred

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 08:26 AM

So, up until now, I've only used Martin Lifespan 13-56 on this D-18.

It's a fine example of a Martin D-18, crossing the pond, different climate, never had any work, and yet action and intonation are perfect.

It leads me to believe it's not one of those twitchy b's affected by the least little humidity/temperature changes, and that the neck is pretty stable. So, bearing this in mind, would a drop down to 12-54 require a truss rod tweak?

Cheers
-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 09:18 AM

Had no effect on my D18; although mine is a pre-adjustable truss rod model!

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 10:04 AM

I guess the only way I'll really know is to to try it and see ;)

But I didn't want to go down the tinkering rabbit hole if responses suggested I may need to, even though I love tinkering with a banjo.

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 11:26 AM

You might not even notice with the first set. It could take some time to settle to new strings. First thing I’d check is that the the adjuster (I don’t think Martins have a nut) is snugged up and not simply loose at the moment.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,gillymor
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 11:41 AM

Some guitars react to a change in string gauges others don't. Tweaking the rod is not a big deal but if you do go slow, I initially go 1/8 turn and wait a day and see what else might be needed. If you're at all uncomfortable about adjusting the rod take it to a trusted luthier for a set up.

---

Errant comma removed. ---mudelf

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 11:44 AM

misplaced a comma after go, why do I proofread after posting.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 12:04 PM

Thanks guys.

I'm confident tinkering with a banjo but I've never adjusted a guitar and I don't, really, think I should start with a guitar that's one of the best I've ever had.

I can see no bellying caused by 13's, and I have no arthritis hand issues, so think I'll watch the guitar top and change down only if there's a need.

Cheers again
-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 12:10 PM

Gilly -

Re: proofreading after posting. You think you're alone?? ;)

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 12:53 PM

You'd think I'd no better by now, Fred.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: MaJoC the Filk
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 02:17 PM

Anyone who's had to proffreed a large body of text (eg a thesis) will find that the first pass finds 90% of the errors, then the next pass 50% of the remaining ones; after that, the only way forward is to get a fresh pair of eyes on the problem, as that'll find a different *class* fo tyops. Don't let that be your external examiner :-) .

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Jul 25 - 07:09 PM

R U a robutt?

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 07:43 AM

^ ?

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 07:55 AM

I've decided to stick with 13-56.

The chicken has lost his bottle ;)

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 08:29 AM

Because of the arthritis and tenosynovitis in my hands, I’m running Elixir Nano PB 12s or D’Addario XS PB 12s on all my guitars now, including my HD-28V and my D-18 which I used to run with 13s.

As I always do when trying a different gauge of strings, I measured the neck-relief before dropping gauges, and again after the change. On both Dreads, the relief had lessened with the lighter strings - all it took was a (1/8-turn anti-clockwise on the TR to get it back to where I like it (~0.006”). It’s really not difficult or risky, provided you go slow and easy.

I do like to measure things - helps to keep track of action on my guitars and, if something changes, it’s a straightforward matter to determine what the change is, and how to correct it. I know that my actions are all 3/32” - 2/32” at the 12th fret, and ~0.006” relief. If something begins to feel ‘wrong’, I know where my aiming points should be, and what I need to do to hit the target.

IMHO, and YMMV of course!

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 08:55 AM

Hmm...ok, I'll get the appropriate 5mm Allen Key, measure up, throw on a set of 12's, leave it awhile, measure again and make any necessary adjustment to the rod.

Go below would be what I'd do then back up, so I'm adjusting up rather than down.

I'll report back.

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,gillymor
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 09:37 AM

You might want to take a look at this Dan Erlewine/Stew Mac vid on understanding truss rods before proceeding and keep in mind that you may not have to do anything after a string change.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 09:49 AM

Key ordered from Strings Direct. Wanted one with an handle. They didn't have one, so I'll make one for it. Shouldn't be a problem :o

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 11:41 AM

I agree with Gilly - it’s always a good idea to do some reading/video-watching before tackling a job for the first time. ‘Bryan Kimsey Lutherie’ website and YT videos are also a good source of info.

Because I’ve been tweaking my guitars’ setups for over 60 years, I tend to forget that not everyone is comfortable with this kind of work, but I do firmly believe that most setup tasks are easily-learned by anyone with a modicum of nouse. It’s not rocket-surgery after all… ;-)

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 11:43 AM

Fred, it’s a shame you won’t be at Leadenham next week - I could have lent you my Stew-Mac long 5mm wrench.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 12:22 PM

BWM -

As I said to Dave the Gnome in another thread, I'm wrestling with several projects at the minute. They may even rule out the Whitby FF if I don't get my skates on...

I've painted a bit of a false picture, though, as no-one tinkers with a banjo more than I do and yet my One North Star has not only survived but sounds great :)

So, an acoustic guitar is a different beast, I know, but - well, truss rods are truss rods. I'm sure I'll be ok.

Cheers
-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 24 Jul 25 - 12:26 PM

Ome, even!

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 07:47 AM

Had another go and got a 5mm Allen Key with an handle.

Coming from Dawson's of Denmark St. :)

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 08:38 AM

It’s only an Allen key - I hope Dawsons was cheap!

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 09:34 AM

Ray -

On orders over £15, Dawson's post free. Unfortunately, this was more, so £5 postage. It's the handle that bumped up the price!

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 09:53 AM

That's confusing! What I meant was, it would be post free if the item cost £15 or more. It didn't BUT, cos of the handle, the postage was bumped up to £5...

Still a bargain!

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 10:47 AM

AND... Mrs F has just phoned me to say that she's ordered one direct from the Martin factory for my D-18.

So, if anyone wants the Dawson's one, drop me a PM and I'll post it off. My treat.

Cheers
-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 12:33 PM

If you google “5 mm allen key with handle” you’ll get more results than you can shake a stick at.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 12:36 PM

Should have added that you need one you can use with the strings still on.

Incidentally, does the guitar have a single or dual acting truss rod?

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 02:03 PM

Dual. 5mm key for all Martin's with adjustable rods except Modern Deluxe and SC models which take 4mm.

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 03:12 PM

”Incidentally, does the guitar have a single or dual acting truss rod?”

Martin changed to two-way rods in the early/mid 2000’s. Fred’s is a recent D-18, it will have the two-way rod.

My HD-28V is a 2010 and my D-18 is a 2012 - both have a two-way rod.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 25 Jul 25 - 03:51 PM

It's a 2024, celebrated its 1st birthday on 11 July, that being when it left its mother(the factory) :)

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 26 Jul 25 - 10:46 AM

I can't believe there's no takers for the Dawson's 5mm Allen key WITH ERGONOMIC HANDLE.

I've misjudged ya :)

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 26 Jul 25 - 12:00 PM

Very generous offer, Fred, but most of my guitars need a spanner, the D18 is pre-adjustable truss rod and the other one needs a special hex key with a “U” bend to get round a brace in the top.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 26 Jul 25 - 12:55 PM

That rings a bell about a U bend required in the tool, Ray. I can't recall the guitar brand though.

If no takers for the Allen key, I'll just keep it with all the other stuff. I have a wall cupboard housing strings, tools, microfibre cloths, Dr Ducks Ax Wax, plectrums, thumbpicks, capos, harmonicas etc.

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST
Date: 26 Jul 25 - 01:04 PM

Thanks, Fred that's very kind of you but I've got my hex key situation sorted out and I just remove the tip from a multi-bit screwdriver and use it for a lever, besides I'm an ocean away.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 26 Jul 25 - 01:08 PM

Guest -

No worries mate :)

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 26 Jul 25 - 01:09 PM

Larrivee, Fred. Mine’s the same model as this - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lc8BcBZ0tAI

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 26 Jul 25 - 01:23 PM

That's the brand, Ray. Seen them around - you know, in stores, at gigs - but never played one.

Isn't Atkin another brand that requires a bend in the tool? Think I read it somewhere.

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 26 Jul 25 - 05:44 PM

Never owned an Atkin so can’t be sure. I’ve actually thought of swapping the Larrivee parlour for the equivalent Atkin but I can’t get my head round their obsession for “weathered” finishes/rusty tuners etc.

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 26 Jul 25 - 07:42 PM

I tried 2 Atkin models, an Essential D and another I can't name.

I didn't like either, they didn't feel right, look or sound right. But that's just my opinion, and I know people who love 'em, just not for me.

But for over 50 years I've had either Martin or Gibson, so you need to read that into it FWIW :)

-F

Subject: RE: Martin Serial Number breakdown-update
From: Fred
Date: 28 Jul 25 - 02:25 PM

So, tried a set of D'Addario EJ16 on the D-18.

Tone was ok, didn't notice any buzzing or intonation issues but I DID notice a loss of fire, so put Lifespan 13-56 back on.

I think I'll be looking for another acoustic guitar soon, not to replace this one but

an as well as.

-F