How do I file off my frets?

crow01 · #1 07-13-2010, 11:35 AM

Hello TB world,

I am sliding on my fret a lot lately, and I cut my finger playing on the G.

Then I noticed the ends (edges) of the frets are really sharp.

How do I file them off, what tool do I use, or how much filing is safe without damaging the neck.

SurferJoe46 · #2 07-13-2010, 11:59 AM

There's all sorts of luthier's tools here and you can find the right tool to do the job.

I know there's a FAQ on it in the Search Engine here on the site too.

grifff · #3 07-13-2010, 12:02 PM

I've heard of people using nail files for small filing work but wait for the more experienced to post before filing away!

Zooberwerx · #4 07-13-2010, 12:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by crow01

Hello TB world,

I am sliding on my fret a lot lately, and I cut my finger playing on the G.

Then I noticed the ends (edges) of the frets are really sharp.

How do I file them off, what tool do I use, or how much filing is safe without damaging the neck.

Take it to a trusted tech. My local guy has a special contraption that will straighten things out in just a few minutes. Best time to take care of this type of repair is in the dead of winter when the wood has contracted and fret-sprout is at its worst.

Riis

MonetBass · #5 07-13-2010, 12:15 PM

SurferJoe posted a good link. Check it out.

I had to fix some fret sprout -- which is what you're describing -- on my MIM Strat after I got it. Here's a quickie "How-To":
1. Use painter's tape (blue usually) to tape off the fingerboard and neck in between the frets.
2. Use a small triangular file for GENTLY filing down the fret ends, going in the direction of the grain. Take your time and file lightly.

But like I said, check the above link also.

Jo6Pak · #6 07-13-2010, 12:24 PM

i use one of these:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Ultimate-Fret-En...item563dfd98e5

rojo412 · #7 07-14-2010, 08:16 AM

I use a sanding block and fine paper (400 or so grit) and a very light touch at just the right angle and get the edge nice and smooth, then switch to a finer (1200 grit) and finish it off.

Works and feels great, but I wouldn't do this without some practice.

MarTONEbass · #8 07-14-2010, 08:43 AM

If you're good with hand tools, save yourself the $50 and just do it yourself. Be careful where and how you store the bass. Lack of moisture in the air is shrinking your neck slightly and causing the fret sprout.

62bass · #9 07-14-2010, 07:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zooberwerx

Take it to a trusted tech. My local guy has a special contraption that will straighten things out in just a few minutes. Best time to take care of this type of repair is in the dead of winter when the wood has contracted and fret-sprout is at its worst.

Riis

That's right. I missed the chance this year on one of my new ones. Terrible fret sprout during the winter with the air dry as dust. Now the humidity inside is about 70% even with the AC on all the time and the neck feels normal. I'll get it around Feb next year and not put it off this time. It's easy enough to do yourself if you work carefully. My local tech would charge $30 for the job. That's not a bad price at all.

SurferJoe46 · #10 07-15-2010, 10:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MarTONEbass

If you're good with hand tools, save yourself the $50 and just do it yourself. Be careful where and how you store the bass. Lack of moisture in the air is shrinking your neck slightly and causing the fret sprout.

About Fenders/Squiers - is the urethane coating NOT totally on the fretboard on those that are so coated?

Just wondering how the relative humidity can affect those necks that are sealed by plastic coating.