How to change the frets on your Gibson guitar. Playing the guitar can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, but over time, the frets on your guitar can become worn or damaged, causing intonation and playability issues. If you own a Gibson guitar, changing the frets can be daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a manageable and rewarding DIY project.
In this step-by-step tutorial, we will guide you through changing the frets on your Gibson guitar, from removing the old frets to installing and leveling the new ones. By following these instructions, you can improve the playability and sound of your guitar and give it a new lease on life.
Table of Contents
How to change the frets on your Gibson guitar
Step-by-step tutorial
How to change the frets on your Gibson guitar
The time it takes to change the frets on your guitar will depend on your experience and the amount of work required. This process can take several hours or longer. 5 hours
Remove the neck
Your guitar’s neck is made of wood and connected to its strings by string bridges, allowing for vibration between its nut and bridge that allows strings to change the length to increase or decrease pitch.
Removing the neck from a Gibson guitar can be a complicated process that requires special tools and expertise. For optimal results, we advise consulting a luthier.
People sometimes try to remove glued guitar necks without damage, which can be dangerous. Doing it alone may damage the finish or even destroy their guitar entirely. Therefore, it is wiser to leave this task to professionals equipped with all the necessary specialized tools and experience who can remove and install new necks on guitars safely.
Remove the old frets
Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the fretboard onto the neck. Be careful not to strip the screws or damage the fretboard. Once the fretboard is removed, use wire cutters or pliers to remove the old frets carefully. Use masking tape to protect the fretboard and neck from scratches and damage.
Prepare the new frets
Cut the replacement fret wire to the correct length for each fret. Use wire cutters to trim the ends of the fretwire to match the radius of the fretboard. Use a fret file to smooth the edges of the fret wire.
Install the new frets
Place the first fret into the fret slot and gently tap it into place using a fret hammer or rubber mallet. Be sure to align the fret with the neck and seat it firmly into the slot. Repeat this process for each fret until all the new frets are installed.
Trim and level the frets
Use fret wire cutters to trim the excess fret wire from the ends of the frets. Then, use a fret file to level the frets and ensure they are all the same height. Use sandpaper to smooth the frets and make them comfortable to play with.
Reattach the fretboard
Once the frets are installed and leveled, reattach the fretboard to the neck using the screws that were removed earlier. Use a soldering iron to reattach any disconnected wires during the process.
Congratulations! You have successfully changed the frets on your Gibson guitar. Remember to take your time and patience throughout the process to ensure the best results.
Estimated Cost: 100 USD
Supply:
- The cost of replacement frets will depend on the material and size of the fret wire. On average, a set of 22 frets can range from $20 to $50. The cost of tools can vary based on the quality and brand, but a basic set of tools can be purchased for around $50.
Tools:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Wire cutters
- Pliers
- Soldering iron (optional)
Materials: Materials: Replacement frets Fret wire cutters Fret hammer or rubber mallet Fret file Sandpaper Masking tape
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FAQ’s
Can you replace guitar frets yourself?
You can replace guitar frets, but it requires the right tools and techniques. Changing frets can be challenging for beginners, but with practice and patience, it can be a rewarding DIY project. It is important to note that if you are not confident in your abilities, it is best to seek the help of a professional luthier or guitar technician.
What Fretwire does Gibson use?
Gibson typically uses medium-jumbo fretwire on their guitars, a standard size and shape found on many guitars. The exact dimensions and material of the fretwire may vary depending on the specific model and year of the guitar. If you are unsure about the size and shape of the fretwire on your Gibson guitar, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s website or a qualified guitar technician.
How do you install new frets?
To install new frets, you will need to remove the old ones first, then prepare them by cutting them to the correct length and filing the ends to match the fretboard’s radius. The new frets are installed by tapping into the fret slots using a fret hammer or rubber mallet.
Once the frets are installed, excess fret wire is trimmed, and the frets are leveled and smoothed using a fret file and sandpaper. It is essential to take your time and be precise throughout the process to ensure the best results.
If you are not confident in your abilities, it is best to seek the help of a professional luthier or guitar technician.