Hercules Stands 5-Space Guitar Rack (Model GS525B) Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Hercules Stands 5-Space Guitar Rack, Model GS525B, is designed to securely store and display up to five acoustic, electric, or bass guitars. Its robust construction and thoughtful design ensure instrument protection and convenient access. This rack is ideal for stage, studio, or home use, offering a practical solution for organizing multiple instruments.

Key Features:

• Accommodates five acoustic, electric, or bass guitars.
• Features Specially Formulated Foam (SFF) at all contact points to protect instrument finishes.
• One-piece design for straightforward setup and portability.
• Yoke positions are adjustable to fit various guitar body shapes.
• Expandable with HA205 accessories to accommodate up to 10 guitars.

2. Setup and Assembly

The Hercules Stands 5-Space Guitar Rack (GS525B) features a convenient one-piece design that requires no assembly. It arrives ready for immediate use.

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the guitar rack from its packaging.
2. Unfolding: Gently unfold the rack until it forms a stable 'A' frame structure. Ensure all locking mechanisms (if present) are engaged to secure the frame in its open position.
3. Placement: Position the rack on a flat, stable surface. The rubber feet on the base provide stability and prevent shifting.
4. Adjusting Yokes: The neck cradles (yokes) can be adjusted along the top bar to optimize spacing for your specific instruments. Slide them to the desired positions to ensure proper support for each guitar's neck.

Figure 2.1: The Hercules Stands 5-Space Guitar Rack (GS525B) ready for use.

Figure 2.2: The Hercules Stands 5-Space Guitar Rack (GS525B) folded for storage or transport.

3. Operating Instructions

Using the Hercules Stands 5-Space Guitar Rack is straightforward. Follow these guidelines for optimal instrument safety and organization.

1. Placing Guitars: Carefully place each guitar into a designated slot. Ensure the body of the guitar rests on the padded base supports and the neck is cradled by the adjustable yokes.
2. Neck Cradle Engagement: The neck cradles are designed to securely hold the guitar neck. For models with an Auto Grip System (AGS), the weight of the guitar will automatically engage the locking mechanism, providing a secure hold.
3. Spacing: Adjust the position of the neck cradles and the padded base supports as needed to accommodate different guitar sizes (acoustic, electric, bass) and prevent them from touching each other.
4. Removing Guitars: To remove a guitar, simply lift it upwards. If equipped with AGS, the locking mechanism will disengage automatically.

Figure 3.1: Multiple guitars securely stored on the Hercules Stands 5-Space Guitar Rack.

4. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and continued performance of your Hercules Stands 5-Space Guitar Rack, regular maintenance is recommended.

• Cleaning: Wipe down the metal frame with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and grime. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish.
• SFF Padding Care: The Specially Formulated Foam (SFF) padding is designed to be safe for most instrument finishes. Periodically inspect the padding for any signs of wear or damage. Clean with a mild soap and water solution if necessary, and allow to air dry completely.
• Joints and Mechanisms: Check all joints and moving parts for tightness and smooth operation. Ensure that the folding mechanism operates freely and locks securely.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, fold the rack for compact storage in a dry, temperate environment.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common concerns you might encounter with your guitar rack.

• Instability: Ensure the rack is fully unfolded and placed on a flat, level surface. Check that all feet are making firm contact with the ground.
• Guitars Not Fitting: Adjust the neck cradles and padded base supports to match the dimensions of your specific guitars. Wider acoustic guitars may require more space between cradles than electric guitars.
• Damage to Instrument Finish: The SFF padding is designed to be non-reactive. However, always ensure your instrument's finish is clean and dry before placing it on the stand. Avoid prolonged contact with any foreign substances on the padding.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, product support, or to purchase additional accessories like the HA205 expansion packs, please refer to the official Hercules Stands website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.