LSR roller nut

[Happyguy]

Ok, I have received the roller nut from fender. Can anybody help me out with how to put it in, the instructions are unclear. I realy don't wan't to mess this up because it would meen buying a new neck. And going to see a professional isn't really an option were I live (far from EVERYTHING). Also im not certain if the neck is wide enough, is it possible that its too skinny? If so could i just put the nut on and let it hang over the sides?

Thanx,

happyguy

[GuyaGuy]

there are different neck widths and the LSR was made for a certain width--1 11/16".
so if you're neck is narrower, you COULD install it and let the sides hang over BUT then the string spacing would be different than it is now. AND the strings might be precariously close to the edge.
if i were you i'd look at another kinda nut--wilkinson maybe?
what guitar is it for? with or w/out trem?

[RandomHero]

I've had experience with these. You need a good eye, -very- accurate measuring tools, fine small files and a lot of patience to cut it as needed. The instructions are vague, but try www.mimf.com and ask for help if you need it; it's an excellent resource, the "GuitarNuts" of luthiers and repairmen. Also, be TERRIBLY SURE that your neck radius is between 9" and 10"! If not, your action will be horrible on the middle or outside!

[Happyguy]

Ok guys, thank you for the replies but im gonna have to look for an better alternative. The 2 E strings would almost be over the side of the neck + i think i want to be able to return to stock.

[GuyaGuy]

i'd suggest a graphite or GRAPH-TECH nut. i have one on my bigsby-equipped guitar and have no real problems w/ detuning.

[Happyguy]

Yeah, I was thinking about a graphite nut, but I am also interested in tusq. Has anybody had any experience with this kind of nut?

[erikh]

What's the width of your neck at the nut? If it's 1 11/16", the LSR will be fine. I got one for my birthday from a buddy of mine several years back and had a shop but it in professionally (Torres Guitars actually). It works great and the string spacing is perfect.

I also have a graphite nut in another guitar and that works really well too. When the vintage trem is set up right, I can bend all day long and it won't go out of tune. The quality of springs you use will help too.

I haven't tried tusq yet but have heard good things about it. It's very hard and very smooth so the strings should move through the slots with ease and no "catches". I'm contimplating going with tusq for my Epi Les Paul.

[Cenulab]

ErikH,

I agree that there are different grades of tremolo springs; I used to have some nice fine ones (small wire diameter, more consistent action throughout the range of the tremolo).

In my experience, nobody knows what I'm talking about when I tell them that there are different tremolo springs out there;

Do you have a source for these springs that you find to be high-quality?

Thanks,

-Cen

[erikh]

Cenulab,

I'm not sure who made the ones in my home-made guitar but they're not as loose as the black Fender springs and not as tight as some others that I've seen, they're right in the middle, can be flexed with your fingers with minimal effort. That's how I test them out. I just happened to have a bunch laying around and matched up the tension that worked best. Turned out in the end I was using 3 springs with the middle one a little looser than the other 2.

I really like the Fender springs though. Their coils are a tad smaller in diameter and allow really smooth movement.

[Cenulab]

ErikH,

Exactly! The black ones rule, IMO. I had a set in a Strat, but accidentally left them in when I sold it! : (

...but I've also had good luck with with a "strategically mis-matched" set. I have a factory LSR nut on my Strat, and it stays in tune better than any guitar I've ever owned, whammy or no.

[Happyguy]

I also have have good results from a "strategically mis-matched" I put two heavier springs on the outside (both ends) and then 2 weaker ones beside them and leave the middle empty. THIS is the right way (in my head:))