new strings/groove in nut?

[loujones12]

Hi guys, i was going to put some new strings on my Fender strat! going to fit 50/10"s however the groove/slot in the nut wont allow the strings to fit? i dont want to go and open up the groove and cobble it up. seems to make the base strings twangy and cheap sounding. any idea"s regards lou

[shrek]

hi be careful it is not just a case of fitting heavier strings eg. changing from 9's to 10's. the nut has to be adjusted in most cases but also the truss rod has to be tweaked. this is something done by a professional. it only costs £25 or so for a setup. cheaper than making a mess of yur guitar.

bst wishes steve.

[Chas]

Hi Lou,
The nut grooves ideally need to be just wide enough for each string without gripping them. If you do this be careful not to cut the grooves any lower - just side to side. As you're filing, keeping trying the string back and forwards in the nut until you're happy that they can slide back and forth freely.
Once the new heavier strings are brought up to pitch, the neck will probably need adjusting with the extra tension, and also you'll probably find that the base of the trem will be sitting up higher, in which case the spring claw will need screwing in a bit. It's a balancing act!
As Steve says, if you're not confident of doing it, take the guitar and strings to your local guitar tech and ask him to make the necessary adjustments - it won't be expensive, I do it for people all the time.
Regards, Chas.

[loujones12]

Hi Guys thanks for your comments. i think ill leave well alone. if i did do it, and it didn't work out, or the sound was poor i would be up the creek then!. if it ain't broke don't fix it Right! cheers lou