Nut Removal on a Fender P

Baird6869 · #1 07-27-2007, 10:31 AM

I couldn't find anything in this forum regarding my issue so hence the new post....

My action is way too high on my MIM Fender P and it is due to the nut being to high.

Rather than sanding down the string slots, I think it makes more sense to remove the nut, file the bottom and re-install.

The nut looks like it is glued in and I have no idea what is the best way to remove it.

Any ideas?

Thanks!

202dy · #2 07-27-2007, 12:08 PM

Nut height only controls string height at the first fret and has little to do with controlling the action overall. Before removing the nut make sure that this action will be the proper remedy.

Nut removal, Fender style.

An exacto knife with #11 blade or other incredibly sharp blade is used to score the lacquer north and south of the nut. Make sure to score on the sides, too. This is not for the light of heart or shaky of hand. Take a block of hardwood and a hammer and tap north and south on the nut. That should loosen it. The nut is then "walked" out with an end nipper or a pair of wire cutters.

lowendgenerator · #3 07-27-2007, 05:01 PM

MIM plastic nut? I would tap it out from the side with a punch and a few light taps from a hammer. I don't think the MIM's are laquered over. At least the 2 that I own aren't. YMMV of course.

Baird6869 · #4 07-27-2007, 08:13 PM

Thanks guys.

I ended up reading through this forum and decided to try the drill bit and sandpaper trick and just sand the string slots.

Worked like a charm.

I was really hesitant about removing it as it is really in there good and the bass is a 1993.

The action was unbearably high on the 1st and 2nd fret, now it is great.