From Military Service to Musical Craft: 5th Street Guitar Repair Brings Expert Instrument Care to Harlan

After a Life-Changing Health Event, Local Veteran Discovers New Purpose in Guitar Repair

When Tim Locatis faced a major health crisis that ended his career working with prison reentry services, he found himself at a crossroads. Rather than letting his disabilities define his future, the Air Force veteran and Persian Gulf War veteran chose to pursue a long-held interest: the craft of musical instrument repair.

A Journey of Reinvention

"I thought, what is it that I always wanted to do?" Locatis recalls. A longtime guitar player himself, he kept coming back to the idea of instrument repair. After discovering Southeast Guitar Repair Academy, he made the investment in his education and launched 5th Street Guitar Repair from his home-based workshop in December 2024.

"Making a productive good situation out of a bad situation" became his mission. "Many disabled veterans struggle with purpose when they’re no longer working, but I wanted to stay productive."

Craftsmanship and Expertise

That productivity has quickly transformed into a thriving business serving experienced musicians throughout the Harlan area. Locatis offers comprehensive services including complete instrument setups, fretwork, hardware replacement, electronics repair and diagnostics, and specialized bone work for nuts and saddles.

His attention to detail and commitment to quality have attracted serious musicians with vintage instruments requiring expert care. "These people bring in something that they make clear to you is irreplaceable," Locatis explains. "This is like the first guitar I ever bought - I've had it for thirty years."

Making Music More Accessible

Beyond serving experienced players, Locatis is passionate about helping young musicians succeed. "The number one reason why a child gives up [guitar] is not because of lack of interest, but because their guitar is unplayable," he notes. Through proper setup and adjustments, he can transform an entry-level instrument into something that encourages rather than frustrates new players.

This dedication to his craft has quickly earned him a reputation among local musicians. "I feel like they test the water with me, and if they like what I do, I become their guitar tech," he says. "Just simply because I'm right here and I'm very competitively priced."

Building Musical Community

For Locatis, the business has become about more than just repairs. "I've had fun meeting people," he shares. "This kind of brings people to me, and they're of the same mindset that I am." These connections often lead to extended conversations about music, instruments, and shared experiences.

Looking ahead, Locatis sees potential for growth while maintaining his commitment to quality work. "I want to make a difference," he says. "And if the difference I make helps music, that's a huge deal for me."

Visit 5th Street Guitar Repair at their workshop location near the fairgrounds in Harlan, IA. Contact Tim at (402) 813-2658 or through their website to schedule a free consultation. Follow their work and connect on Facebook. Services are available seven days a week, including evenings, by appointment.