Strat nut

[Boston Joe]

I would be very appreciative if someone could give me a little info on replacing a nut on a 70's Strat. Will it be necessay to use an arched/radiused nut in the nut slot, or will the slot be relatively flat? Since I haven't removed the nut as of yet, I would like to be prepared for any surprises.

Thanks.

 

[kmcguitars]

Re: Strat nut

On my 73' Strat the nut is arched. Most commonly 1 5/8. before you
remove it copy the string widths (gaps) from the old nut. You'll need
a X-acto knife set and small jewlers files. A dremel tool is most helpful
if you have one. Most of the bone nut blanks I've gotten from StewMac
have been a little wide to fit in the nut slot. I sand it w/t emery cloth.
Try the Tusq Nut to avoid this. It's good stuff and much easier to
work with. Most importantly take your time !! If you can get the nut out
in 1 piece that's the best way to replacate it. But that's not always
the case :smack: Good Luck

 

[Boston Joe]

Re: Strat nut

Thanks, KMC,

Fortunately, the local deal here has a good selection of bone, so I just cherry pick. This is a '74 neck that has had about four different nuts in the past, so I may want a flat bottomed replacement as well, just in case.