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Zero'th fret questions.
http://mowrystrings.luthiersforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10123&t=41857		 Page 1 of 1
Author:  kristoffereide [ Mon Nov 04, 2013 2:16 pm ]
Post subject:  Zero'th fret questions.
Hello again! The neck-through i got help with in another threat is really coming along :) Now i have a question about a zero fret, that i hope you could help me with. The reason i want a zero fret is that i have no guitars of this kind, and i was really surprised when i tried the ones i have tried with a zero fret.
Ok, so

Do i use the same fret size on the zero fret?
Do i use a different radius on the zero fret?
How can i make sure i get the same amazing low action in the construction stage, if there are any small but important tips here.
How far back from the zero fret can i place the nut/string retainer?

Thanks in advance!
Author:  Tim Mullin [ Mon Nov 04, 2013 2:54 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Zero'th fret questions.
Zero fret should be the same as all other frets. You level and crown it just as you would all other frets on the FB.

The "nut", which is regulating the string spacing, can be quite close to the zero fret (as little as 2 mm), but be aware the narrow piece of wood between the zero fret and end of the FB can easily snap off when you insert/press/hammer in the fret. The closer is the nut to the fret, the more careful you need to be. You can file down the barbs on the tang for an easier fit and maybe a bit of glue.

Personally, I like zero frets, but many clients prefer a nut, even if it's plastic.


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Author:  kristoffereide [ Mon Nov 04, 2013 3:40 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Zero'th fret questions.
Thanks, so im guessing the string action is regulated by the bridge and truss rod? Makes sence actually, as strings ring on all frets (or should ring:) )

Thanks alot!

The "nut" space from the zero; how far away can it be before its a problem. I have this idea of having slots in the break angle neck/headstock where the strings pass through on their way to the tuners, and this means i have to have the nut about 1,2 cm (just under 1/2") away from the zero fret. Will this cause the string to jump of the neck do you think?
Author:  nyazzip [ Mon Nov 04, 2013 4:03 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Zero'th fret questions.
by the way....a properly set up nut should have action that is every bit as low as a zero fret....it just takes more care to do so
Author:  B. Howard [ Mon Nov 04, 2013 8:26 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Zero'th fret questions.
I like my zero fret just a bit taller than the others. I would always level and crown and then install the zero so it is maybe .005 that you took off on the leveling higher. +1 on snapping the end of the FB off being easy to do, careful there. Tremolos can wear out zero frets pretty quick too.
Author:  the Padma [ Mon Nov 04, 2013 9:13 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Zero'th fret questions.
Do i use the same fret size on the zero fret? Yes
Do i use a different radius on the zero fret? No.
How can i make sure i get the same amazing low action in the construction stage, if there are any small but important tips here. Question does not compute. Please reenter.
How far back from the zero fret can i place the nut/string retainer? As far as you want.
Author:  kristoffereide [ Tue Nov 05, 2013 2:29 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Zero'th fret questions.
Thank you for all your answers!
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