Fender Lead III Manual

Fender Lead III Guitar manual cover
Pages 12
Year 1982
Language(s)
English en

Fender Lead III Guitar Specification

The Fender Lead III Guitar, introduced in the late 1970s, is a distinctive model that embodies versatility and innovation. It features a solid body crafted from alder, known for its balanced tone and lightweight properties, contributing to comfortable playability. The neck is made from maple, providing a bright tonal quality and stability, and is complemented by a rosewood or maple fingerboard with a 9.5-inch radius, facilitating smooth play across 22 medium jumbo frets.

The Lead III is equipped with dual humbucking pickups, designed to deliver a powerful and rich sound suitable for various music genres. These pickups are controlled via a three-way toggle switch allowing players to select between the bridge, neck, or a combination of both pickups, catering to diverse tonal preferences. A unique feature of the Lead III is its dual toggle switches for coil-splitting capabilities, enabling players to switch between full humbucker and single-coil operation for added tonal flexibility.

The hardware includes a string-through-body hardtail bridge, which enhances sustain and tuning stability. Its vintage-style tuners ensure precise tuning adjustments. The Lead III's control layout features a master volume and tone knob, providing straightforward sound shaping. The design of the guitar is both retro and contemporary, with an offset body shape and a range of vibrant finishes that give it visual appeal. The Fender Lead III Guitar stands out as an instrument that merges classic Fender aesthetics with modern functionality, making it a versatile choice for guitarists seeking a unique sound and playing experience.

Fender Lead III Guitar F.A.Q.

How do I adjust the truss rod on my Fender Lead III?

To adjust the truss rod on your Fender Lead III, first locate the truss rod adjustment nut at the headstock. Use an appropriate hex key to turn the nut. Clockwise adjustments will increase neck relief, while counterclockwise will decrease it. Always make small adjustments and recheck the neck relief.

What is the best way to clean the body of the Fender Lead III?

Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water or a guitar-specific cleaner to wipe down the body. Avoid using household cleaners as they might damage the finish. Always dry the guitar thoroughly after cleaning.

How can I reduce the hum from my Fender Lead III pickups?

Ensure that your guitar is properly grounded. Check the wiring and connections inside the control cavity. Using a noise gate pedal or playing through a properly grounded amp can also help reduce hum.

What strings are recommended for a Fender Lead III?

The Fender Lead III typically works well with a set of .009-.042 or .010-.046 gauge strings, depending on your playing style and preference. Fender, D'Addario, and Ernie Ball are popular brands that offer high-quality strings.

How do I properly intonate my Fender Lead III guitar?

To intonate your Fender Lead III, use a tuner to ensure each string is in tune at the 12th fret. Adjust the saddles on the bridge back or forth until the 12th fret note matches the open string in pitch. Repeat this for each string.

What should I do if my Fender Lead III's frets are buzzing?

Fret buzz can be caused by low action or uneven frets. Check the neck relief and raise the action slightly if needed. If the problem persists, consider having your frets leveled by a professional technician.

How can I maintain the finish on my Fender Lead III?

Regularly wipe down your guitar with a soft cloth to remove sweat and dirt. Use a high-quality guitar polish to maintain the shine and protect the finish. Avoid exposing the guitar to extreme temperatures and humidity.

What is the correct way to store my Fender Lead III guitar?

Store your Fender Lead III in a hard case or gig bag to protect it from physical damage. Keep it in a temperature-controlled environment with moderate humidity to prevent warping and cracking.

Why is my Fender Lead III not staying in tune?

Check that the strings are properly stretched and the tuning pegs are securely tightened. Lubricate the nut slots, and ensure the bridge saddles are properly adjusted. Consider upgrading to locking tuners for better tuning stability.

How often should I change the strings on my Fender Lead III?

Change the strings every 3-4 months if you play regularly, or sooner if they become corroded or lose their tone. Frequent gigging musicians may need to change them more often.