Question about 1935 National string height

[Audun Skeie]

Hello,

On my National Hawaiian Electro (S/N 175), the bridge seem to be too low, theres about 1-2 mm spacing between the strings and the body. Does anyone know if this is an issue on these models? The guitar has been modified some, new tuners etc.

And also, does anyone know what the bottom originally was? (See keychain picture)

Thanks

[Audun Skeie]

Seems I didn't properly upload the images, here's a link https://imgur.com/a/VfqJGtc

[Noah Miller]

Someone slotted the bridge saddle a bit deeper. Originally, the slots were just deep enough to keep the strings from popping out when plucked. But you only lost maybe 1mm there. There was never more than a few mm to begin with.

The saddle can always be replaced with a higher one if it's causing you problems. It's just a piece of wood, and that one looks like a replacement anyway. I believe this steel was converted to an 8-string and back.

[Jack Hanson]

I would agree; that saddle should definitely be replaced. Should be a relatively quick and easy task for any qualified luthier -- or anyone handy with access to the proper tools -- to fabricate a new saddle for your National Electric Hawaiian.

[Barry Fagan]

Hi Audun,

Regarding the keychain at the bottom of the instrument, I believe it is indeed a keychain, added by a former owner to replace the original screwed in strap button. Here is a picture of the button on mine, N162. [/img][/img]