Changing the Nut on a MIM Fender Jazz

[VERS]

Recently the nut on my Jazz chipped off near the G string while I was putting on some old flats again, and I need a new nut.

I'm thinking about getting a TUSQ Jazz Bass Nut, but I'm not completely sure about how I should replace the nut.

I'd rather not send it in to my local Guitar shop, I think my friend would be able to do it. Are there any step by step tutorials or anything?

[Craig_S]

Get this done by a pro. Especially if you have to cut the string slots at all. You'll be glad you did.

[mrhardy]

It is not that hard to do, but is is real easy to not do it right.
Do you mind maybe messing up a few times? Learning to work on your own stuff will save you lots of headaches down the road.

What tools do you have available to use? You do not have to use nut slotting files if your careful, and work slowly. Work slowly regardless of the tools.

I spent 3 hrs last week cutting a nut from a blank, and ended up with one string spaced, just a little off. I get to make another new one now. Waiting on my order from Stewmac.

There are several good sources online that take you step by step to making a new nut from a blank. It is far easier to simply lower the slots on a ready made replacement. Lowering the slots is easier than sanding the bottom and keeping the proper radius on the nut. Fender nuts are curved on the bottom. Change the radius, and you could break the nut because of a stress point.

The graph tech, or bone nut replacements are a good choice.
I change all my nuts from the cheap plastic ones to a better quality unit. Except on my Geddy because of the binding, and the poly board. Plus the workmenship is top notch on it.

I'll be happy to tell you how I cut my nuts, but first go read about doing this.

[kyral210]

Right, you need two things! First, this book:



Second, this nut:
http://www.graphtech.com/products.ht...4&CurrencyID=2

Enjoy!

[VERS]

Thanks for all the suggestions guys, I'm gonna read up on this some more and maybe try it myself. I wanna learn how to do this. Worst case scenario I can send it in to a tech.

Thanks!

[JustDavid]

If you do take it to a tech, & you & they can, try to watch them while they do the repair.