The Fret Kisser Update

[deacon Mark]

I originally said I did not have one of these files I made a small one to do the job. Well as it turns out StewMac is having huge sale 1/2 off this Fret Kisser and Z File Crowning File. I decided to bite and buy them because probably is more precise than mine at least based on video review by another guitar repairmen.

I refretted and L5 and everything was just pretty much great except I had one small buzz at the 9th fret on the B and G strings. It would ever-so-slightly buzz if I picked hard with my very thick pick I use. Action was fine right at 4/64ths and if I just turn the bridge wheel half turn it would completely go away. I am anal with this stuff so I decide to get it perfect so I could even lower the action if I wanted. The fret rocker indeed showed a slight high spot on the 9th fret and even one on the 17th. I went to work with the fret kisser and then the usual polish from 400, 600. 800, 1500, 2000 after using the new Z crowning file. I also decided to re-radius the rosewood staddle as the string notches were just a bit inconsistent. I normally do not like to notch the strings on a wooden bridge as such and let the tension of the strings over time make a bit of indentation. I think this makes the string ring clearer.

Brought the guitar up to tension and wow! What a difference it made. I was actually able to lower the action to slight less than 4/64's and the guitar plays amazing much better. Granted it was probably good for most folks before but when you get it spot on and tight tolerances it is a real treat.

[SOLR]

Oddly, can't find my previous post on this,

Thx for the update though, I had ordered the "fret kisser and understring" kit file but they are still out of stock, did you get yours as separate items? Actually upon second look, the fret kisser is also out of stock.

S

[deacon Mark]

Oddly, can't find my previous post on this,

Thx for the update though, I had ordered the "fret kisser and understring" kit file but they are still out of stock, did you get yours as separate items? Actually upon second look, the fret kisser is also out of stock.

S

I ordered it last week got both yesterday. I think they are still on sale I would order them now maybe they will honor the price. I would simply go now and do it and possible they will simply back order it at the price. These two tools today same me at least 1 hour of work if not more. It is a well make tool and heavy duty. I normally give StewMac a bit of grief for the high prices they charge but sometimes you just have to pay the piper.

[SOLR]

I ordered it last week got both yesterday. I think they are still on sale I would order them now maybe they will honor the price. I would simply go now and do it and possible they will simply back order it at the price. These two tools today same me at least 1 hour of work if not more. It is a well make tool and heavy duty. I normally give StewMac a bit of grief for the high prices they charge but sometimes you just have to pay the piper.

Kept clicking "email when available" text but so far nothing I want seems to be in stock.....



S