Filing string ramps in slot-headstock

[chimpotle]

I've been dragging my feet on filing the string ramps on my slot-head. I of course want them symmetrical, and the one thing i've learned so far on my first kit build is how easy it is to remove too much wood.

How do most folks do it? Should i make a template? And maybe a wedge to impart the angle i want?

PS - i am starting to get to the point were i have a ton of questions. Some are black and white, some are philosophical. Would it be best to start a new thread for each (which i would think would make it easier for someone else with the same question to find)? Or should i start one thread and just start log gin questions?

Thanks in advance!

[tippie53]

I use a large 1/2 inch rat tail rasp and free hand them in. Make pencil marks and work to the link, It goes pretty easy actually

[chimpotle]

Thanks John. I suppose pencil marks will be a big help. Any concerns with using a smaller rasp?

Also, i found a technique i'm going to try to make sure i get enough clearance (instead of using a wedge). When i get home from work i'll search it again and post it here. Then i'll follow up with the results.

[tippie53]

take pics

[chimpotle]

Will do - thanks John!

[chimpotle]

Well i found the info i mentioned before - it was on another forum - the gist of which is this:

"run a screw driver through the two e-string holes, file the ramps until a straight edge sits on the screwdriver and the fingerboard end inline like a string, and doesnt touch the ramp".

So first i traced the headstock from the drawing and cut it out. Then i laid it on the headstock and penciled lines for the ramps to approximate length. As you can see, its not pretty.

IMG_1385.jpg

So with trepidation, i went ahead and eyeballed it. I started out with a small rat tail file, and that was producing a pretty horrible looking ramp. I didn't take pics at that point. Instead i ran to the local hardware store and got a 10" round bastard file. Results:

IMG_1389.jpg

MUCH better than i thought i could do. I'll clean it up a bit tomorrow - its Valentines day and duty calls.

[Kevin Sjostrand]

That is looking really good Chuck. I think you will do just fine with this. Sometimes the ol' eyeball can be all we need.

Kevin

[tippie53]

thank you for posting pics, The one thing you want to do is to check that you have string clearance. Put something in the hole to represent the shaft and a straight edge from that to the fretboard. Imagine where the nut slot would be and as long as the line is clear your good to go

[chimpotle]

Thanks Kevin and John.

John, yeah, thats what i was trying to say. I was worried about the angle (for string clearance) and the thread i found on google was suggesting using a screwdriver through the e-string holes and setting a straight edge so it rests on the screwdriver shaft and the the end of the fret board. I would sure hate to find out i didn't have the clearance at the 11th hour….