-18-
Model t10458 (Mfg. Since 10/11)
setting string height
the string height is the distance between the top
of the fret and the bottom of the string (
figure
33). Correct string height is crucial for maximizing
the playability of the ukulele. Measurements are
taken at the 1st and 12th fret.
— if the string heights are at least the thick-
ness of a dime, then proceed to
step 2.
— if the string heights are less than the thick-
ness of a dime at the 1st fret, this is an
indication that the height of the string nut
needs to be adjusted. proceed to
step 3.
figure 35. Correct 12th fret string heights.
String heights
ukulele Body
12th Fret
— if the string heights are approximately the
thickness of three pennies, then continue
to
step 5.
— if the string heights are less than the
height of three pennies at the 12th fret,
this is an indication that the height of the
saddle needs reduced. proceed to
step
3.
3. hand-sand the base of the string nut/saddle.
DO NOT remove too much material.
4. test the string nut/saddle by repeating
steps 1–2.
5. glue the string nut into place.
note: The nut and saddle may need to be
removed and resized if the neck of the uku-
lele warps due to moisture. Use only enough
glue to keep the string nut in place. The
saddle should not be glued.
2. using a stack of three pennies (approximate-
ly
3
⁄
16
"), measure the string heights at the 12th
fret (see
figure 35).
the string nut and saddle come oversized from
the factory. Sizing them requires measuring,
sanding, and re-measuring. Fix both the nut and
saddle until correct string heights are reached.
hand-sanding prevents removing too much
material.
to check the string heights at the 1st and 12th
frets:
1. using a dime as a gauge (approximately
1
⁄
16
")
, measure the string heights at the 1st fret
(see
figure 34).
figure 33. String height measurement
(side view).
Fingerboard
Fret
String
String height
figure 34. Correct 1st fret string heights.
ukulele Body
String nut
1st Fret
String height
