Worth an amateur risking filing nut?

scarry67

Should I risk trying to lower the bass E string on my CP Jazzmaster. Other nut grooves are ok but the low E slot is too narrow for a 46 string so it sits uncomfortably high. I have no specialist tools but want to avoid bunging £50 at a pro!

octatonic

Sure, but if you take it too far then you will have to either build it back up with baking soda and superglue, or replace the nut.

Mkjackary

Do it with really fine sand paper, do it a tad, try not to deepen the slot just widen it, do it tiny bit by tiny bit and you should be fine. If it messes up you can either to baking soda or (as I have done a few times) buy a pre slotted tusq nut and replace the old nut, if the new tusq one is too high just file the base down (instead of making the slots deeper).
That way it will cost you probably a tenner all in(nut, glue, postage)

octatonic

If I didn't have a set of nut files I wouldn't use sandpaper to widen a slot- it can be hard to control.

I'd probably start with using a wound guitar string.

Or try some abrasive cord.

scarry67

I only need to widen it really but a wound D string might get in the current slot. I can foresee that it'll be hard to steer/control with a string or sand paper. Why Fender cut the slot to fit a 24/26ish gauge string I know not.  

Frankieabbot

Try one of those 4mm diameter round mini files. They sell for a pound in my local drapers. They reduce to about 2mm towards the tip. Use whatever width to widen slot without making it deeper. Dont use the triangular type....that will widen and possibly deepen the slot at the same time.

scarry67

Presumably if I manage to widen it, but do it badly, the string may catch slightly, especially when using the Jazzmaster trem? 

Frankieabbot

The machining/burr on these files is ultra smooth...like v v v fine sandpaper. Maybe use it covered with talc or use graphite from pencil (just 'draw' pencil tip on area of file that you are going to use) on the last nut file for a smoother finish.

octatonic

scarry67 said:

Presumably if I manage to widen it, but do it badly, the string may catch slightly, especially when using the Jazzmaster trem? 

Do you know how to cut a nut?

You should have the highest point of the nut closest to the bridge and the rest of the nut should fall away...

Actually, rather than me explaining it in detail, have a look hereL http://www.lutherie.net/nuts.html

FelineGuitars

Seriously if you just need a single slot adjust a pro isn't going to charge you £50

It's the sort oof thing I'd likely do on the spot and charge £10 for (our minimum bench charge).

Making a whole new nut is £50 but not just a tweak like that .........

scarry67

Good idea - there's a decent chap in Maidstone called Dave at DW Guitars who may cut a reasonable deal....