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I have found out that by pressing down on the string with two fingers, on both sides of the spike, that the string can more easily be forced under the head of the spike, in the event you haven't tried this. I have also used a tad bit of super glue to reset a spike that had pulled out of the fret board. If you have to pull the spike upward a bit, you might want to re-set it this way. The only other alternative is to completely re-set the spike and be left with a small hole where the spike was formerly located.
Bobby
Edited by - BobbyE on 01/17/2025 08:12:52
A knife works.
Feeler gauge 1 or 2 thousandths thicker than your usual 5th string is more precise. Just push the gauge into the opening. That should elevate the spike. If the spike loosens and comes out, just put a drop of super glue on it and tap it back into the hole -- with the feeler gauge as a depth stop.
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Or: With a string under the spike, pull up lightly on the string with fingers on either side of the spike. This might be more likely to loosen it than raise it, but maybe worth a try.