MIMF

Hi.

I have a strat with a wilkinson trem which I made some time ago.

The E1st string has developed a rattle all the way up ie on each fret , from about fret 10 and it even buzzes loudly on the very last fret. The string is not touching the end of the neck or the pickups.

I have put plumbers' tape around every grub screw and thread I caN find gone up & down the neck with 600 grit , a stewmac fret rocker files etc etc - ie there are no high frets underlying the E 1st string. As far as I can tell the frets are seated well.

I'm not sure where to look next.

I think this has come on over time and indeed i'd swear on some days it's worse than others but that's a little subjective.

Can anyone give me some clues and ideas on identifying the basic issue and fixing it please?

All advice welcome.

Thanks,

Rob.

Ah.... the elusive buzz.
First of all place your hand on every piece of hardware while you're plucking the string.
Secondly tighten every screw.

I am assuming you have tightened everything on the bridge itself, thus eliminating that possible source.
It could be a saddle with a rounded edge or a sharp groove worn in it. Or a loose fitting trem handle.
It could also be the truss rod, although that should buzz with every string.
It could also be coming from a loose piece on a tuning head, or a string retainer.

If all that fails try changing the string.