Hi:

I'm a guitar novice when it comes to maintenance. I have an American Deluxe Strat I bought in Jan 2011. I've played a fair amount and have not changed the strings. I noticed a while back I would get an occasional buzz at the 2nd fret on the 3rd string, but I don't think anywhere else. The buzz is now more noticeable and I want it gone. Could this just be from worn strings, or does the guitar need a bit of fret work?

Thanks- Tom

Hi, I would have the Neck Relief checked out, as weather and climate changes will make the relief vary from it's initial setup.

But before you do any adjustments change that one string if you think the buzz is rust related. If that doesen't work then check the string height at the bridge compared to the others to make sure it hasn't vibrated itself lower than it was set to be. Your strings should generally follow the radius of the fretboard. If that still doesn't work then look down the length of the fret board and acertain whether the neck is straight or bows up towards the strings or down away from strings. A very small up bow is regarded healthy. A down bow creates buzzing on the lower frets.

If you do not know how to check all these then take your guitar to someone who can. Otherwise on this Fender site there is guides on how to do it.

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GUITAR: Fender USA JazzMaster.
BASS: Fender USA 58'AVRI
AMP: Fender USA SuperSonicTwin - Blonde.

Now is a good time to learn the basics. You've played almost two years, and I guess on the setup the guitar was when you bought it: check everything and set it up to factory recommendations:
Stratocaster Setup Guide
It's not magic, just use gauges when you measure gaps, and do everything slowly.


Yep, it's high time to change the strings and to do the total check/setup mentioned above.
But before you start, check (eyeball measure is OK here) the guitar as it is now:
1. the string height at the bridge (is it in line with the others or clearly off), and
2. the string height at the nut (has the nut groove worn so the string sits lower than the others) and
3. the relief on the neck (just to know what you've got now).

I appreciate all the great posts ... I will try the ideas mentioned.

Thank You! Tom

Hi:

I've started to do some looking at issues with my guitar... I did not notice any wear spots under the G string using my finger at the fret in question, but there is a significant wear spot on the fret, (see pic) the steel seems pitted. I'm surprised as I didn't think I played it that much to cause so much wear. Could this ultimately be my buzz problem, and if yes is there an easy fix?

Thanks- Tom

Those frets do seem well worn in the pictures, I guess your initial instinct about a refret seems to be right on now. Take it in to have a luthier decide whether a fret dress or refret is ultimately required.

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GUITAR: Fender USA JazzMaster.
BASS: Fender USA 58'AVRI
AMP: Fender USA SuperSonicTwin - Blonde.

Refret is needed.

I never thought I would need fret work so soon... is this normal? Before I bought this guitar I was playing an acoustic that required much more pressure on the strings to make it sound good, maybe that "high pressure" habit caused it to wear unusually fast? Or is this unusual?

You have enough meat left on those frets for only one grind and polish (G&P). However and from what I see, you'll only get a year max out of them at which point you'll definitely be needing new frets. And yes, your playing habits are not outside the ordinary for frets to be reduced to that condition.

I caution you: DO NOT attempt to do a G&P yourself based on what you read in some "how to" book. Needless to say, the same goes even more for trying to do a refret yourself. Both tasks require a COMPETENT, EXPERIENCED professional.

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So what happened here with the fret wear was normal? I ask this because if my playing habits did cause the problem I will change them (I can't afford high maintenance). I know I already use less pressure now than when I first bought the guitar, but old habits die slowly .

Also, if the frets are really in bad shape would it not be better to have the re-fret done now than to have to get a G&P and go back for more in a year?

It is normal for some; usually converted acoustic players as many tend to fret with "vice grip" strength as is/was their habit.

Yes to replacing them vs. a G&P for in your case, I said a year max where all you would be doing by settling for a G&P is attempting (in vain) to circumvent the inevitable.

Be advised though, even after having the guitar refretted, if you don't lighten up on your fingering pressure, you'll be going for a second set of new frets in the same amount of time as now.

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You confirmed what I thought about my initial fret pressure, and getting the frets replaced. Is there any way to insure I am getting a competent tech to do the fret replacement work?

By reputation, strictly by reputation. Ignore the hype of the store, dealership or whatever; this also includes Fender authorized facilities.

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I'm in a relative small town, Pigeon Forge, TN ... so trained and reputable techs could be hard to come by. I do know a few musicians that work the local theaters that may have insights for reputable guitar techs, and I will ask at a local Acoustic guitar shop (smokymountainguitars.com) that sells very high end acoustic guitars.

Thanks for all your insights, I will apply it wisely.

Tom

Good luck and you're welcome!

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