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The following photos are some of the steps we do when refretting a guitar or bass. They will show the compression method that we most commonly perform. This is a ceiling view of our fretting table. This table simulates string tension as if the guitar were in playing position, which allows us to true the fingerboard, allowing lowest string height action when completed.
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We use precision calibrated straight edges and surface gauges to set the neck in our custom fret table. Since some frets are worn more than others we need to take the frets out of the equation. This notched straight reads the fingerboard and helps determine how to adjust the truss rod before we set the jig.
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After neck straightness has been determined the jigs pins are set.
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We heat the frets to loosen any original glue that may have been used. The heat also loosens the fingerboards natural oils allowing for a clean and easier fret extraction.
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After the frets have been removed we set the neck to the jig.
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Illuminated from behind the straight edge allows us to see the high spots and imperfections in the board.
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The nut slot is cleaned of glue, debris, nut remains.
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We sometimes pencil the finger board to show high spots. We are now ready to true the board. We developed a way to plane fingerboards perfectly true. Sorry but we choose not to show that secret ingredient.
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After the board has been trued we are ready for the frets. We are setting the side gauge of this saw for the desired fret tang depth. This saw is slightly thinner than the frets tang allowing the fret to fit tightly in the slot giving the neck the compression and stability that it needs.
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Following the fingerboard radius the fret slots are sawn in.
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This file cleans the fret slot surface and allows for the fret to seat properly.
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A perfectly trued, buffed, and prepared fingerboard. We're ready for frets.
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The fret wire is slightly overradiused and cleaned of any residue before installation.
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Glue is beaded into the fret slots.
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Cut to size frets are pressed in.
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After clipping, leveling, crowning, polishing to mirror finish the fingerboard, frets and fingerboard edge are finished out to perfection. The neck plays, feels, intonates and sounds like a dream.
