Installing Frets
The fingerboard comes with precut fret slots. The frets have also been measured and roughly cut to fit their corresponding slots. Installing the frets requires matching the frets to the appropriate slot, installing them on the fingerboard, and removing the excess fret material.
To attach the frets to the fingerboard:
1.Match the frets to the corresponding fret slot on the fingerboard, as shown in Figure 21.
Figure 21. Matching the frets to their respective
slots on the fingerboard.
2.While the frets are laid out on the fingerboard, lay a piece of masking tape down the length of the board and number the frets, as shown in Figure 22.
Figure 22. Frets laid out and numbered on the
fingerboard.
3.Peel off the tape with the frets attached and set it aside. This will help you keep the frets organized until you are ready to install them.
4.Use a non-marring mallet and lightly tap each fret into the fingerboard slot until the underside of the fret body comes in contact with the fingerboard, as shown in Figure 23.
Figure 23. Installing the frets.
Note: Excessive force can cause the frets to bend. Tap them in gradually across the length of each fret.
5.Use a pair of fret cutters or nippers to cut any excess fret lengths flush with the edge of the fingerboard.
6.File the cut ends of the frets smooth with a fine-tooth metal file.
7.Use 600 grit sandpaper on a sanding block to finish the ends of the frets. Be careful not to scratch the fingerboard.
Model T10458 (Mfg. Since 10/11) |