BUZZES -- WHAT DO YOU DO?
First check the strings to see if you need to replace them. If you 1.
aren't sure, put on a new set.
Check the action, using the Action Test (in the Banjo Neck 2.
Section). If the clearance is less than 1/8", it is too low. See
Coordinator Rod Adjustment Section to raise the strings.
3. Fret the neck at the fi rst fret. If it still buzzes, check the bridge.
A bridge buzz sounds like an annoying twang. See e Bridge
Section for handling.)
4. If the neck buzzes unfretted but doesn't buzz when fretted on the
fi rst fret, the problem is the nut.
Deering nut slots are cut with special tools and procedures at the
factory. You only run into nut problems if someone has tinkered with
your banjo.
Is the nut slot too wide? If so, loosen the string and lay a piece of paper •
across the string slot. Put the string back over the slot and tighten it
so that it pulls the paper down into the slot. Tear all excess paper off ,
leaving only the paper in the slot to fi ll the excess space temporarily ,
until you get a new nut.
ere must be a highest point in the string groove which breaks the •
string vibrations at the edge of the nut by the fi ngerboard, or the string
will buzz in the nut slot. If this is the problem, seek professional help.
e bottom of the string should be 1/16" above the fi ngerboard at the •
nut. If it is lower than this, the nut slot is cut too deep. Give it to a
repairman to fi x.
6. If you have gone through all of the above steps and still have
buzzes, then the problem is with the frets.
Expansion and contraction of FINGERBOARD wood due to changes in
humidity can cause the frets to loosen and raise up, and the strings to buzz
on high frets.
Frets will wear down with use, and buzzing can occur when pressing the
string on a worn fret if the next fret down the fi ngerboard toward the head
is not also worn.
To check the frets, lay a six inch ruler or straight edge on top of them and
see if it rocks. If it doesn't lay fl at on three or more frets, seek professional
help.
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