Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Hi all!
This really is a question for Paul but everyones opinion is welcome!
1 What is the best fretwire to use for a refret on a 74 4001, and where can I get it (someone who will send to Australia)?
2 and as the fretboard will need to be refinished could I use Nitro (which I have and know how to fight with) or is there some other finish that is better to use and readily available (in Australia)

I know conversion varnish is the stuff to use but this is for my scungy 74 that looks like a truck backed over it. My RM 1999 has a Nitro finish and it's ok (of course not quite factory). There are some reasons not to use nitro, What are they?

Eden.

weemac wrote:Hi all!
This really is a question for Paul but everyones opinion is welcome!
1 What is the best fretwire to use for a refret on a 74 4001, and where can I get it (someone who will send to Australia)?
2 and as the fretboard will need to be refinished could I use Nitro (which I have and know how to fight with) or is there some other finish that is better to use and readily available (in Australia)

I know conversion varnish is the stuff to use but this is for my scungy 74 that looks like a truck backed over it. My RM 1999 has a Nitro finish and it's ok (of course not quite factory). There are some reasons not to use nitro, What are they?

Eden.

Both Stew-Mac and Luthier's Mercantile International sell fretwire of an appropriate size and ship it to Oz. Shipping will be cheaper from Stew-Mac because they tube-ship.Stew-Mac's #0148 is good.

http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Fretting_su ... twire.html

Nitro is OK for fretboards, but to build it up to the thickness that is usually seen on Rick boards, will probably cause it to crack over time.

I'd recommend PPG #2042 catalyzing clearcoat, available from any PPG distributor in Oz. But it's tricky to reduce and spray and requires an overnight cure. There are also other equivalents in other paint ranges. Your local body shop supply store will be able to advise you.

Tell them I sent you (kidding... ).

Sounds good, thanks for that Paul!

Eden.