Best way to adjust a metal nut slot (cheap SX 8 string)

[Nic Neufeld]

Hi guys,

So I have and still love a SX 8-string lap steel. I've got a better pickup in it and I keep it tuned to B11...with a low B (I think a .065 or somewhere around there). Here's a sample image of the headstock:




My mild problem is that the big low B string is not even with the other strings so I end up getting a lot of excess string noise or rattling unless I mash down really hard. Getting the tops of the strings inline, at least up by the neck, would be really nice. So a slightly widened/deepened slot would be ideal.

It's basically a cheap metal L shaped bracket (the nut). Any idea of the right way to go about altering the nut? I know most nut files are intended for use with bone or plastic nuts, and I don't have a set of those anyway, hah. So a simple and cheap method to get a "good enough" fit would be awesome...like if there's a non-ideal but readily available file that one could carefully use a bit at a time til the fit feels right? Anyway, let me know your thoughts. Thanks!

[Erv Niehaus]

I had to cut the string slots on an aluminum nut I made for a guitar just recently.
I used one of those wire cleaners for the end of an acetylene torch.
There's all different sizes available in the set and it really worked good.
Erv

[Nic Neufeld]

Thanks Erv, there's one for 7 bucks on Amazon, cheap enough to give it a shot!

[Erv Niehaus]

Nic,
I'm sure it will do the job for you.
Erv

[Mike Neer]

Be mindful of leaving too much of a flat surface. That is where the whiny, or sitar-ish sounds come from.
Examine the other slots so you can see how they are angled and how much of the surface the string touches.

[William Echard]

Does anyone know if it could also be OK to use regular nut slotting files on metal? I just did some pretty extensive adjustments on a brass nut using a set of Hosco files and it seemed to work fine. But might it have dulled or clogged them extra quickly? Anything to watch for?

[George Piburn]

Hello from GorgeBoards to Nic.

A Simple Triangle Needle file will do everything you need.

I got mine in a set at Walmart hardware section in the 5 dollar range.

I've cut hundreds of metal nut slots with only one over the years.

I use some 1000 grit sand paper folded over to get in the V slot and soften the leading and back side micro edges to clean up any microscopic debris that is a major contributor to string Buzz.

The file can help too, using it in a downward angle to sort of round over the bottom and sides of the Vee Cuts.

Remember --- it is easy to depthen a V Slot, it is very difficult to put metal shaving back. -- Less is more.

[Chris Harwood]

Use your bar or similar item to check for equal heights across the strings as you file. Probably a given...but others may have better advice.