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Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 7,172 Likes: 29
Top 40 Poster
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OP
Top 40 Poster
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 7,172 Likes: 29 |
When tuning my guitar I have problems with two strings,D and G, binding or jaming in the nut,I keep turning the key but the string won't slide,then it will let go and go too far. so then I have to turn the key back with the same results.What can I do to correct this problem?
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Joined: May 2001
Posts: 7,412
Top 30 Poster
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Top 30 Poster
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 7,412 |
I have noticed this at times on my 42 year old Martin. You can put a little lubricant such as hand lotion in the groove, remove the excess with a paper towell. I have also heard of people using a pencil to add some graphite to the groove. Anything that allows the string to move freely will do.
Ray E. Strode
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 8,574
JPF Mentor
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JPF Mentor
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 8,574 |
You may have some kind of "gunk" built up in the nut. Scrub it with a toothbrush and toothpaste, clean it out real well, you can use water to rinse it, but wipe it off clean and dry. Then, I've used graphite from a no.2 pencil...just "draw" in the nut groove. I've heard of using hand lotion, but I'd imagine that the lotion would attract dirt and dust and gunk up. If it keeps sticking, a good luthier or instrument repair man can touch up the groove with a fine file. ------------------ Mike Dunbar Music
You've got to know your limitations. I don't know what your limitations are. I found out what mine were when I was twelve. I found out that there weren't too many limitations, if I did it my way. -Johnny Cash It's only music. -niteshift Mike Dunbar Music
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Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 7,172 Likes: 29
Top 40 Poster
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OP
Top 40 Poster
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 7,172 Likes: 29 |
Thanks.I will give it a try.
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Joined: May 2001
Posts: 13,618
Top 10 Poster
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Top 10 Poster
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 13,618 |
Talc powder would work too. personally myself, I would file the offending groves out a touch without touching the bottoms. Finger ease spray am do it too. Graham ------------------ http://www.songramp.com/homepage.ez?Who=grahamhenderson
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Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 2,558
Top 100 Poster
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Top 100 Poster
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 2,558 |
Sounds like the slot in the nut is a bit too tight for that particular gauge of strings. I've always used the pencil lead when I'm in a bind (no pun intended), but when I have the time to work on the instrument(s), I will use the proper file to widen the nut. If you're not familiar with how to do this, you may want to seek out a professional. If you're daring, check out www.stewmac.com for the proper files and/or other fine luthier tools. And no, I don't get any perks from endorsing them (wish I did), but they are one of the best in the business, and an invaluable resource.
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