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Refretting a '58 Special

Topcat

Member
Joined
Nov 3, 2005
Messages
56
I was wondering if it is necessary to have to sand or plane down the fret board to 'true' it up before installing the new fret wire?

Two different repair guys have told me that it will most likely need it-they haven't seen it in person yet. I don't want to lose any wood and I don't want the dot markers coming out more 'white' looking.

Am I expecting too much?? I don't feel I want my original fret board touched!

Help. Terry
 

sundaypunch

New member
Joined
Nov 23, 2001
Messages
708
Many tech's will tell you that. Planing the board makes it much easier for them to get a nice level fret surface. Unless it is way out of whack I wouldn't ever let someone plane an old LP board (or Strat, etc. for that matter). I would take it or send it to someone that knows what these guitars are worth and will take the extra time to do it right.

If you find someone accustomed to working on high-dollar vintage guitars they will understand that you don't just plane a vintage board unless the guitar is practically unplayable.
 

Topcat

Member
Joined
Nov 3, 2005
Messages
56
Sundaypunch,

You are in the same area as me I believe (Detroit). Have you any reputable repair guys you could recommend? Your thoughts are exactly the same as mine.

Terry
 
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