Struggle with F on E string

[mcarufe]

I have a problem with getting a clear note on lower frets of E string. How do I measure tolerances of nut if the fingerboard is radiused?? Are the grooves in the nut set to high?
Mike

[Dru Lee Parsec]

To check the nut height you fret your string on the 3rd fret and then check to see how much clearence you have over the 1st fret. The string should be almost, but not quite, touching.

Check the instructions here http://www.frets.com/FRETSPages/Musician/GenSetup/NutAction/nutaction.html For a better explaination with photos.

[mcarufe]

To deepen the grooves or to make new ones do I need a seperate file for each string? If so what sizes should I buy?
Mike

[sunburst]

It would be good to have a set of nut files in a variety of sizes, but a small triangular file can get you by if you only want to lower a couple of strings. The problem with a V-notch that you get from a triangular file is with the larger strings being pinched in the nut and not tuning well. That doesn't usually happen with the E. If you decide to get nut files, get the sizes that corespond to the string gauges you use.

[mcarufe]

Think I will get a file set. Stew Mac has some sold individually. Should they match the exact size or should I get ones that would fit larger diameter strings I might use occasionally.
Mike