This repair usually affects the first 3 - 7 frets from the nut. Acoustic guitars usually get more partial refrets because of the frequent playing range between frets 1-7, although I do some electric guitars as well. This is a great way to save on a full refret when the remaing frets are in good condition...
DAMPENING FRET SLOT
MEASURE FRET SIZE
DAMPEN TONGUE BRACE
COMPLETED PARTIAL REFRET
I always hydrate the fret slots, let the water permeate the board and "steam" the frets as I pull them out. This has proven to reduce chip out, especially on ebony boards, as much as possible...
The new fret wire should be .003" to .005" taller in height than the remaining good frets and certainly the same width. The remaining old frets should be able to give up to .005" in height, to withstand recrowning, polishings and still be tall enough for good playing height...
Along with bean or shot bags, I use a fret buck to help reduce vibration from hammering in frets. I hammer in frets so I can feel how tight the tang is in the fret slot. This protects against over compressing frets in the slots and causing a back bow...
A partial refret can breath new life into the 1st through 7th fret area that is most heavily used on acoustic guitars. When conditions are right, a partial fret job is the way to go...
From complete setup to major repair, Accu-Tech Guitar Repair LLC is your one stop shop for quality stringed instrument repair and maintenance...
