Zero Fret. How do you install them?

[cmiller0034]

Ok. At this stage I can either shape the profile on the back of my neck or start putting in the frets. Either way I will have to deal with the Zero fret pretty soon. I dont see much discussion on this issue. I have leveled the fretboard but have not yet cut the string guide slot.

Do I install the zero fret the same as the other frets? Do I level the Zero when I level the rest, or just leave it alone so it is a little higher than the other frets? Do I even have to worry about it? Is the bow in the neck enough to make it clear the other frets so there is no buzzing?

I really don't know what to do at this critical step so experienced builders please help. What's you method?



Also, when you shape the back of the neck do you generally shape the heel and volute first and then carve the middle, or the other way around?

Thanks!

[olrocknroller]

I use a slightly higher profile fret for the zero because I like to keep the neck almost perfectly flat; however, if you like some relief in the neck, you can use the same size. I position the zero fret so that the string contact point is exactly where it should be for your string length. Also, if you intend to use the tremolo a lot, a stainless fret for the zero will last much longer.

Hope that helps.

olrocknroller

[panther]

I'm not positive if this is exactly correct.
When I did my zero fret, I measured 3 examples I had available. All fell within the range of from .005" to .007", higher than the other frets.

Dan

[cmiller0034]

if you intend to use the tremolo a lot, a stainless fret for the zero will last much longer

I have about 9' of Stainless steel fretwire from LMI that I'm going to use. Thanks for the tip I also thought it would be a good Idea to use SS so the strings would not bite into the fret like I have seen on older Mosrites.

I'm not positive if this is exactly correct.
When I did my zero fret, I measured 3 examples I had available. All fell within the range of from .005" to .007", higher than the other frets.

Dan

Unfortunately I only have one size of Fretwire! The only other SS fret wire the sell is about .04" taller than the kind i have now. a bit too tall, I think.

what LMI says about it
FWSS74 Stainless Steel. Historically our most popular fretwire size, this wire is typically used for steel string instruments.

https://www.lmii.com/fretwire-descriptions-size-chart

There also seems to be a big debate among luthiers if gluing the frets in is necessary. And if they do, if superglue should be run under the fret after the fret has been set or if glue should be put in first and then the fret set. Its all subjective, and confusing.

[panther]

I'm stepping out of my comfort zone at this point, someone correct me if I'm wrong. I think using the same size fret wire for the zero fret will cause a problem at the first fret buzzing.

Dan

[olrocknroller]

I'm stepping out of my comfort zone at this point, someone correct me if I'm wrong. I think using the same size fret wire for the zero fret will cause a problem at the first fret buzzing.

Dan

I think you're absolutely right, unless you plan to use a fair bit of relief...I use wire that is around 0.05" taller than I use on the neck, and have no problems with keeping the neck flat.

[olrocknroller]

if you intend to use the tremolo a lot, a stainless fret for the zero will last much longer

I have about 9' of Stainless steel fretwire from LMI that I'm going to use. Thanks for the tip I also thought it would be a good Idea to use SS so the strings would not bite into the fret like I have seen on older Mosrites.

I'm not positive if this is exactly correct.
When I did my zero fret, I measured 3 examples I had available. All fell within the range of from .005" to .007", higher than the other frets.

Dan

There also seems to be a big debate among luthiers if gluing the frets in is necessary. And if they do, if superglue should be run under the fret after the fret has been set or if glue should be put in first and then the fret set. Its all subjective, and confusing.

I have tried both methods, and have found that soaking super-glue under the fret makes a good solid connection with the fretboard, thus avoiding dead sounding frets; however, I pity the poor fellow who attempts a refret down the road!

[Bob Shade]

You absolutely can use the same size fret wire for the zero fret. Otherwise you would not be able to have the same size frets over the whole fingerboard. The zero fret is a simply another fret, and if you want super low action the same size fret is the way to go.

You can use a slightly taller fret as well. I do in some cases because it gives you a little more flexibility with different types of set ups.

However if you needed a larger fret at the zero position, then you would also need larger fret wire in every other position of the fingerboard graduating to very small down by the heel. Correct?

For another example, when you make a barre chord on your guitar, you are simply moving the zero fret all around the fingerboard using your finger as a capo with the same size fret wire in every position. So it makes sense that a zero fret with the same size wire will work perfectly when set up correctly.

Hope this helps and I explained it so you can understand,

Best, Bob Shade

[cmiller0034]

I have tried both methods, and have found that soaking super-glue under the fret makes a good solid connection with the fretboard, thus avoiding dead sounding frets; however, I pity the poor fellow who attempts a refret down the road!

Olrocknroller

I had to deepen the slots on my FB yesterday. I chewed a few of them up in the process. Not a disaster, but I will be running glue under each. Probably titebond, to make sure they STAY seated. I don't like using Superglue, it cures WAY too fast and wood glue is a lot thicker and better for this application I think. I gotta make my fret drill press caul today so I can press them in.

You absolutely can use the same size fret wire for the zero fret.

You can use a slightly taller fret as well. little more flexibility


For another example, when you make a barre chord on your guitar, you are simply moving the zero fret all around the fingerboard using your finger as a capo with the same size fret wire in every position. So it makes sense that a zero fret with the same size wire will work perfectly when set up correctly.


Best, Bob Shade

That example makes sense to me. Thanks Bob. And everyone else for their insights. Different stroke for different folks. As long as your method works for you, right? I will use the frets I have for low action.

[Lachstar]

Found it! Was reading Tim's blog the other day and had come across this, he reckons the zero is exactly the same as any other. http://tymguitars.com.au/blogs/blog/14052449-neck-work-on-a-burns-baldwin-bison