ClayTech - Posted - 12/13/2012:  07:53:27

So I finally tried a set of nylgut strings on my banjo. Still unsure of whether or not I like them. But main issue I'm having is that I have snapped two of the red 4th strings. They both broke at the tuner, but not at the hole. I've checked and checked and there are no burrs or any reason they should break there. I finally tried tying the leftover end of the 5th string to the red 4th, with the knot between the tuning peg and the nut, and that is holding just fine. No problems with any of the other strings, even with the no-knot tailpiece. What gives?

Bufo Bill - Posted - 12/13/2012:  15:14:41

How high are you trying to tune the string? You can join the Polymer Strings Group and ask there, someone may be able to help.

All the best from Bill. :D

bhniko - Posted - 12/14/2012:  13:12:21

Have not had any problems with my Aquila nylgut strings. I have had my banjo tuned up to 92 on the drum dial before backing down.
As the nylgut keeps stretching for a while before settling in I am surprised that it snapped. The fourth string seems that it should be
the last string to snap as it is the heaviest. How are you checking your pressure on the string?

ClayTech - Posted - 12/14/2012:  13:13:34

I was just tuning it to D for standard G tuning. I was using a tuner, and it was the last one I tuned up, so I know it wasn't stretched too far.

rcmoore - Posted - 12/14/2012:  13:22:25

I have never had a problem with a Red 4th string breaking.  When I first started using Nylguts, I did have a problem with the wound 4th wearing out.  I determined that the problem was with rough frets. Since then I always dress the frets on a new (old) banjo before I install the strings.  I suspect you are tuning your 4th string up a whole octave.  The 4th string Nylguts really feel loose, and it takes some getting used to when you change from wire strings.

Bob Moore

ClayTech - Posted - 12/14/2012:  15:17:56

Definitely wasn't tuning it up an extra octave. I've tuned enough times to know better, plus it was the last string I brought into tune so I know it was on the right octave. This is why I'm stumped as to why is broke. It's tighter now than ever before, now that it's stretched out for a few days, and the 5th string leader I tied to the end is holding up fine.

John Gribble - Posted - 12/14/2012:  17:54:29

Is the slot in the nut wide enough for the string? The edge of the nut slot may have grabbed the soft string. If the string was too tight and the nut slot held it,  the stretch of string between the nut and the tuner could have gotten too tight.

ClayTech - Posted - 12/14/2012:  18:08:04

quote:

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Originally posted by John Gribble

Is the slot in the nut wide enough for the string? The edge of the nut slot may have grabbed the soft string. If the string was too tight and the nut slot held it,  the stretch of string between the nut and the tuner could have gotten too tight.

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I think this is the best explanation so far. I'll check out the nut.

mikehalloran - Posted - 12/15/2012:  12:00:12

Although the correct tool for burnishing the nut slot is the correct size nut file, a wound metal guitar string slightly thicker does the trick.