K7421 Posted October 16, 2021 Share Posted October 16, 2021 (edited) Hello! I'd really like to upgrade the tuners on my epiphone les paul junior. It's the 2012 junior with the single humbucker in the bridge. The stamped tuners that are there now are pretty bad and I'd like to find something that won't leave any of the holes from the existing tuners exposed. Has anyone dealt with these stamped tuners? I don't mind reaming or drilling new holes but again, it would be nice to cover the existing ones. Ty for reading. Edited October 16, 2021 by K7421 Information Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mihcmac Posted October 16, 2021 Share Posted October 16, 2021 (edited) The typical type would be the Kluson style used by Gibson Like these Epiphone Deluxe tuners, There are several brand built like this like Kluson, Wilkinson, Grover, ect. Some use threaded bushings requiring a larger post hole and some use press in bushings which may be closer in size to your stock post hole. But most will require a different screw hole pattern, which you may want to plug the old holes with something like round toothpicks. These use turning ratios from 18-1 (finer) to 14-1 (faster). The Kluson style tuners below have stamped casings using pressed in bushings, but there are also cast versions of these like Grover 135's that use threaded bushings that require larger post holes. Also there is the Grover Rotomatic style below which also uses a different hole pattern and larger post holes for threaded bushings. These are cast so the will weigh More. Basically since you are technically starting over with new holes, you can use any good brand of tuners a set ranging from about 35 to 80 USD. In addition a lot of guitarists like to use locking tuners. There is nothing like a good set of tuners to make your guitar easier to tune. Edited October 16, 2021 by mihcmac Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
K7421 Posted October 17, 2021 Author Share Posted October 17, 2021 I guess i have no choice but to deal with the holes. Not a big deal. Ty for the toothpick idea! I have decided to (modernize) the guitar. I've ordered an interesting looking Wilkinson wrap around bridge. I will black out all of the hard wear and perhaps paint too. I will stay away from Kluson type tuners for a more modern look. TY and anymore suggestions are appreciated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mihcmac Posted October 18, 2021 Share Posted October 18, 2021 When you plug the holes with round toothpicks, my method; a little white glue, press the toothpick in firmly, carefully slice off the toothpick with a razor and since your guitar seems to be black, blacken the end with a black marker. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
K7421 Posted October 19, 2021 Author Share Posted October 19, 2021 Great! Thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
K7421 Posted October 19, 2021 Author Share Posted October 19, 2021 I'm finding it very hard to decide which tuners to purchase. I don't want to spend a ton of money and the cheaper tuners on amazon have mixed reviews. Any suggestions? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LesB3 Posted September 17, 2022 Share Posted September 17, 2022 I know sort of an old post, but figured I'd share my solution, just in case anyone else happens by this thread. I had a spare set of Grover Stat-Tites (V98) lying about so decided to put them on my LP Special II (90's). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LesB3 Posted September 17, 2022 Share Posted September 17, 2022 It has a decidedly older look to it of course, so may or may not be your thing... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LesB3 Posted September 17, 2022 Share Posted September 17, 2022 The wood was soft enough to just poke holes before screwing in, very easy job, maybe 20 minutes total? No need to drill the headstock or even remove the old threaded inserts. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mihcmac Posted September 17, 2022 Share Posted September 17, 2022 Yes, it is much easier if don't have to drill out the post holes and just use tuners with pressed in bushings as the threaded bushings require much larger post holes. New mounting screws can usually go in very easy if the wood isn't too hard. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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