#1
|
|||
|
|||
Best File For Fret Sprout?
My new Republic Tricone arrived and I'm not surprised that it needs some attention. The fret ends are protruding and pretty sharp. I know this is common and an easy fix for an experienced repair person (not me)
So, I would like to purchase the correct tool to perform this work. I feel like I have the needed mechanical aptitude to do this work and the stress level is fairly low doing this for the first time on an inexpensive instrument. I just need some guidance on what file I need before I jump in. Any input is appreciated. |
#2
|
|||
|
|||
I use an 8" fine single cut file. I cut the tang off a new file and round over the cut off end, but that's not necessary for fret sprout work. If you're careful and angle just a bit you can run the file length-ways over the ends and stop before you do any damage to the finish.
|
#3
|
|||
|
|||
I bought a file specifically made for that job from Stew-Mac. Wasn't as cheap as I thought it should have been, but it's made so the part that could contact the neck is smooth. So, easy even for an amateur.
I lived in Colorado, the land of low-humidity fret sprout, for many years, so I used it several times with great success.
__________________
Riley Just playing for my own amazement Martin 000-15sm Eastman E10SS RainSong SMH Blueridge BR-142 The Loar LH-250 Recording King RPS-9 (for slide) Kentucky KM-250 Mandolin A Strat and a Tele Les Paul and Jazzmaster copies |
#4
|
|||
|
|||
I think I may have answered my own question. Several videos out there showing this leveling file being used to file the ends. Am I correct?
https://www.stewmac.com/luthier-tool...ing-files.html |
#5
|
|||
|
|||
Fret sprout is usually a symptom of dry conditions. Before you start filing away on the fret ends I would recommend bringing the entire guitar up to an acceptable RH level. If, after that you still have sprouted fret ends, a beveled file would be appropriate. After you do that you will still need to dress the sharp edges. A 3 corner file with “safe edges” is a good tool for this. It requires some technique, so do a search for instructions. Be patient. Easy to take too much off and create another problem. Good luck.
__________________
BradHall _____________________ |
#6
|
|||
|
|||
Thanks, Brad. I've gotten the guitar properly humidified and the frets are still sticking out. I have also gone down the youtube rabbit hole. I will certainly take my time. Even though it's a relatively inexpensive guitar there's no reason to be in a hurry.
|
#7
|
|||
|
|||
If you're going bleary-eyed from Youtubes here's my 2 minute rendition. It also details how to make your own safe edge file for finishing the fret ends if you need to do that.
I also wouldn't choose to spend $50 and shipping on a cut-off file with a chunk of 2 by 4 glued on, either. There's always somebody willing to part you from your money. Last edited by Rudy4; 05-23-2020 at 09:49 AM. |
#8
|
|||
|
|||
Quote:
I just go to my tool box and pull out a regular fine cut flat file (the forum software won't let me call it was it is actually known by - a mill *******). Carefully file the sharp ends at about 60° from vertical when looking down along the neck length. Be careful not to scratch a surface or cut too deep into the edge of the fret board. |