worn nut slots in Fender Custom T8

[David Becker]

A few of the strings in my Custom T8 appear to ride too low in the nut, requiring pretty firm bar pressure to keep them from rattling when I play. I'm looking for suggestions on how to build up the nut slots so I can re-cut them. This would be a first-time project for me, although I consider myself fairly handy. The issue only affects 2 strings on the near neck (the one I play most, by far, of course) and one string on the far neck.

Thanks so much!

David

[Tim Toberer]

I know on vintage instruments sometimes the best thing to do is have a replacement made and keep the original. I think some sort of epoxy might work if you want to try to fix. Clean it really well, fill the slot then file it with a proper gauged file.

[David Becker]

Thanks, Tim. I was thinking about trying JB Weld.

[Erv Niehaus]

I wouldn't fool around with JB Weld, I agree with Tim, get a replacement.

[Les Ford]

Would it not be possible to just lower the other slots to match by just flattening the top of the nut and recutting them all? That way you could keep the same part.

[David Becker]

Unfortunately the Custom T8's don't have a traditional nut, but rather a machined steel piece with slots all at a preset depth. Seems to be a design flaw that players tend to live with. I'll find out if I can live with it.

[Javier Schulenburg]

If you have a torch, you could braze some bronze to it, it won't sound quite like steel, but if you can get a good bond it should be a far better option than anything resin-based

[Barry Coker]

I have made some of these for lap steels the grooves are 1/8" wide (.125) and the rollers are the brass rollers off old strings No they are not gauged but are a step up from filed grooves.

[Erv Niehaus]

Barry,
Takes me back to the old Sho Bud days.
Looks pretty neat.
Erv