1970s Yamaha FG-160 (Taiwan-made) Jumbo Guitar

August 27, 2021

1970s Yamaha FG-160 (Taiwan-made) Jumbo Guitar

I was doing the same work to two FG-160 models from the early '70s, so I figured I'd post them both for reference. This one is essentially identical in construction, feel, and sound to the made-in-Japan model save the label in the soundhole.

It's cleaner, though, and aside from my removal of the dust covers for the tuners (the dang things always rattle), it's all-original.

I think these all-ply Yamahas from the '70s are some of the best-ever production instruments "for the average player." They sound good, they hold-up beautifully, stay in tune, and are reliable and stable. My only complaints with them are that their original low/small frets don't feel the best and the neck's heft is on the "generous" side.

Repairs included: a neck reset, fret level/dress, setup.

Top wood: ply spruce

Back & sides wood: ply mahogany

Bracing type: x

Bridge: rosewood

Fretboard: rosewood

Neck wood: mahogany

Action height at 12th fret: 3/32” bass 1/16” treble (fast, spot-on)
String gauges: 54w-12 lights

Neck shape: medium-big C

Board radius: ~12"

Truss rod: adjustable

Neck relief: straight