Jump to content
Gibson Brands Forums

replace machine heads...


aj

Recommended Posts

I have a lefty 2002 LP+

 

Recently, it has started sounding strange.

Metallic rattle on strings 1-4 open, and again when fretted on 10-15.

 

Local shop raised the action a bit - still some rattle, but that caused string 6 makes an odd vibration.

 

We know it's not the truss rod, and nothing appears loose as far as screws, PUs, etc.

 

The vibration is greatly reduce when the tech grabs the machine heads.

Machine heads are OEM, ( rounded E stamped on the back and greenish-grey keys)

look a lot like this:

http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/Gibson-Vintage-Nickel-Machine-Heads-with-Pearloid-Buttons?sku=306088

 

Also says it would run me about 120 to replace them all.

I figure its a job I can do myself, and apparently, save about 89$ in labor.

 

BUT

 

I have read not all holes are drilled the same, and I know not all MHs are created equal.

 

If I decide to replace them...any recommendations on what to get that will fit w/o redrilling/crossthreading?

 

I've also seen some are advertised as left/right hand. You've got to turn them both ways to restring and tune, so Does it really make a difference?

 

Thanks,

AJ

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I don't think there are right and left handed tuners. Changing tuners really isn't that big of a job. Personally, I like Grover Vintage Green Keystones. I have them in 5 of my Epis. They drop right in. The holes in the Epis that I have are 10mm, so if you get the Kluson tuners you will need to get bushings, which isn't a big deal either.

 

I did need to redrill 12 holes on the back of the headstock, but that isn't a big deal. Weh drilling, put masking tape down so the finish won't chip. These particular tuner left just a little bit of the hole visible, but very little. Here is a pic of them on my G-400. If you look closely you can see a little shadow on the bottom of each tuner. You really can't see the hole, only the beginning of it, I'd say about 10%.

 

SG002-1.jpg

 

I also used the GFS look-a-likes on another G-400. They are the Kluson style and I needed to get bushings for them. They are okay tuners, but I personally like the Grovers better. The posts in the Grovers are tight, no play. The GFS have a ittle play, but after the strings are on it isn't an issue. I only had to drill 6 new holes on the back of the headstock with the GFS tuners, the existing holes lined up perfectly.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Put in a set of Grover Rotomatics three per side. No modifications.

18:1 ratio. No noises. No slipping. Look great, too.

 

And no 129.00 either..

 

as low as 40.00. I put them in all my guitars and replace lots of epis with these that came with stock E machine heads.

 

TWANG

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Also says it would run me about 120 to replace them all.

I figure its a job I can do myself' date=' and apparently, save about 89$ in labor.[/quote']

 

He's charging you twice what the tuners would run! WOW! That's robbery! Good decision to do it yourself.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

×
×
  • Create New...