Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I've just put new D'Addario strings on my 660/12TP and I'm having a problem with fret buzz on the low E string and the D string. It had Pyramid flats on it before I put the D'Addario strings on, and I'm guessing that I can fix this by adjusting truss rod tension. The strings are buzzing at the first fret (I think), and if I use a capo at the first fret the problem disappears.

Given that the G B E strings play fine I thought I'd loosen the tension on the t-rod beneath the lower end strings (E A D). Can anyone give me an idea of how much to adjust it? I know that without seeing it it's not easy, but a rough idea would help since I have to retune all the strings after each adjustment and 'trial and error ' makes for a very long process. If there's anything else I should be aware of when I'm doing this I would appreciate any advice you can offer.

Do the low E and D nut slots look like they may have been altered from stock to fit the Pyramids?
If deepened, that could also be a source of your problem. Just a thought before you try other adjustments.

Lee: Try here first. Also, Russmanuel has a very good point.

Thanks Peter and Russmanuel, the posting on truss rod adjustment had a salutary effect - I won't be touching them if I can possibly avoid it - way too scary.

Russmanuel's point may be the problem. There are signs that the nut may have been cut - if anything the action with the Pyramids was too low - there was so little difference between first fret and open string that it was hard to play the first fret - no room for the string to flex under the finger to get an F on the E string without applying enormous pressure.

I'll try building up the affected slots with something to see if it works before I get a new nut.

Thanks again guys, LK

Lee...you could cut 1/8" off the end of a spare string that goes in that position and lay it in the slot as a test or superglue it if it won't stay. If you have to glue it, cut a longer piece of string with the overhang toward the tuners. When you want to remove the piece of string just heat it up with a soldering iron. Cyanoacrilate glue melts at about 225F.

Dave