Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

[GhostPuncher]

When I switched from 9s to 10s on a js32 model a couple of the strings felt more stiff, almost slightly muted. I've heard it could be the trem bridge being too low, but I don't buy that. The action seems a bit high already and the bridge is low. I'm wondering if anyone else has had an issue with bad locking nuts or there are threads on the topic. I can't find one with the search.

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

Going up a gauge for the same pitch SHOULD cause an increase in string tension. This will very probably increase the forward bow in the guitar's neck.

It is possible that the new, bigger strings are not sitting neatly in the saddle grooves the way that the old ones did. (Depends how worn the metal surfaces have become.) Same could be true of the string clamp if it is cheaply made.

Otherwise, your guitar probably just needs a good set-up to suit the tens.

 

[GhostPuncher]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

Yeah I'm use to the gauge, 10s on all my guitars except BC rich, 11s, and my Ibanez with tens is like butter. I've never had this issue before. Then again I've never had a low end guitar with locking trem. I'm assuming a quick R3 replacement would help. I'd like to OFR it in the next couple months, but I'm itching to fix a temporary situation.

 

[Cdwillis]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

Is the bridge sitting parallel to the body?

 

[GhostPuncher]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

Yep. Im bridge anal.

 

[DrNewcenstein]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

The locking nut that came on it is designed around 9s, and frankly doesn't have the muscle for 10s, in my experience. They have trouble gripping the E, A, and D, and may allow the G to slip, especially with LT/HB sets.

An OFR nut will be taller than the factory nut, but with the thicker strings, the action may not be that bad near the nut. It'll also hold the strings better.

 

[greekdude]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

Does it happen on only open notes?

 

[DrNewcenstein]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

As well, given the design of the bridge/saddles, you may consider angling it slightly forward so less of the string is touching - the extra surface area/contact may be stifling the string's vibration.

 

[GhostPuncher]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

The open G was the worst. I did raise the bridge just a bit and it seems to be better. I just have to suck it up for now. i ordered pups already and can't yet decide on a trem. The I figure the nut will come with it so why get a replacement now.

 

[GhostPuncher]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

Btw, any advice on installing the retainer?

 

[GoldenVulture]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

How about pickup height ? Have you checked it ?

I want to hear what this GhostPunching is all about ..:kabong:

 

[GhostPuncher]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

I keep my pups low. And the key is to remember that they aren't really ghosts.

 

[greekdude]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

The open G was the worst. I did raise the bridge just a bit and it seems to be better. I just have to suck it up for now. i ordered pups already and can't yet decide on a trem. The I figure the nut will come with it so why get a replacement now.

can you put the 16 string back (from the 9' set) ? and see if there is a difference. If yes, then maybe put a new string. If your nut is the guilty one, you might treat it with a little epoxy, make some swallow base on the slot and then make a new slot.

 

[DrNewcenstein]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

Btw, any advice on installing the retainer?

You shouldn't need the string retainer bar as the headstock is angled backwards. The retainer is to pull the strings downward uniformly after they cross the nut, so they have a flatter angle going to the tuners. This helps not only with initial tuning, but also with tuning stability when you lock the nut: if the angle of the strings coming off the nut to the tuners is too high, the strings will go sharp when the lock is engaged, and flat (or back to tuned pitch) when released. Ideally the retainer will be at the correct height such that locking the nut results in no change in pitch.

Angled-back headstocks, especially on Jackson/Charvel pointyheads, were designed to perform the same function as the retainer bar, so it is not necessary to install it on a Jackson.

 

[GhostPuncher]

Re: Low quality Jackson locking nut issue?

Nice! Thanks!