How to Replace a Guitar Nut

Written By: Danylo Gula
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How to Replace a Guitar Nut

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

10

Time Required

5 - 20 minutes

Introduction

This is a tutorial on the replacement of a guitar nut. For people not familiar with this type of replacement I advise you to use caution and follow the steps in order.

The replacement procedure does not seem difficult on paper but if you attempt to use shortcuts more issues could arise. Please note, this replacement requires you to remove (or move aside) guitar strings several times, to avoid clutter the guide does not explain how to remove strings.

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    • Use a micrometer to measure the length, width, and depth of the guitar nut.

    • Use a ruler to measure the string height compared to the first fret.

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    • Remove the guitar strings.

    • If your intention is to replace the guitar strings; removing the strings by cutting them will be the most efficient.

    • If you want to keep the current strings; loosening then adjusting the strings will be the most efficient.

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    • Use a sharp knife to cut the glue from the edges of the guitar nut.

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    • Remove the original nut by striking it with a hammer or mallet.

    • Before knocking the nut out of its slot, make sure it was scored properly.

    • Inspect the location where the nut was removed. Use sandpaper to flatten the location if necessary.

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    • Sand the replacement nut, make the measurements identical to the original.

    • Only sand the nut a bit at a time. It's easier to work with a larger nut than a smaller one.

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    • Use a pencil to put graphite in the slots of the nut.

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    • Place the replacement nut onto the guitar.

    • Restring your guitar or move the strings back into place.

    • Do not glue the nut into place.

    • This step is to verify the measurements of the replacement nut.

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    • Verify the string height

    • String height is where precision is key. Make sure it is the EXACT height required.

    • Remove the strings before proceeding to the next step.

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    • Using watered-down wood glue, glue the nut onto the guitar.

    • Use a small amount of wood glue.

    • Placing glue on the guitar nut itself is easier than placing glue directly on the guitar.

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    • Restring your guitar or move the strings back into place. Tighten the string immediately afterwards to secure the nut.

Conclusion

Make sure the strings are tuned and the nut is in its proper place before claiming to be finished. It is important that the guitar nut becomes glued to the guitar properly. Be certain that the guitar nut is in place before, during, and after tuning the guitar.

Author

Danylo Gula

Member since: 10/01/22

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