Fessenden 12 string tuning problem---help!

Donald Dunlavey · Post by **Donald Dunlavey** » 17 Feb 2008 6:08 pm

This Fessenden is only 5 years old and setup for Extended E9 per Bob's suggestion from the forum. All of a sudden I'm haveing problems with the 6th string going flat then sharp when I rotate between my RKL and 2nd pedal. Need some suggestions, have had it on the bench and haven't spotted anything. Tried several adjustments, as I'm not exactly new to the mechanic's. At a loss right now as to where to start to correct the problem. Any help from you familiar with Fessenden certainly appreciated, cause I'm running out of Xanax.

Billy Carr · Post by **Billy Carr** » 18 Feb 2008 5:03 am

Remove 6th string and make sure the nut roller is lubed and moving freely. Check the changer for any extra pieces(ball ends) from strings breaking. Also check the rods that raise and lower #6 to make sure nothing is binding. Make sure bellcranks are secure also. I've always used a .20P for a #6 on the Fessy's I've played. Hope this helps. There'll be other players adding to this, so somewhere there'll be a solution. I use the simple process of elimination when looking for problems on PSG. It can only be a few things. Good luck.

Donald Dunlavey · Post by **Donald Dunlavey** » 18 Feb 2008 5:38 am

Billy,
I've done all that you suggested, but will check those same things again, to be sure, Also concerned about the stop on the pedal rod at the top against the cabinet and its adjustment. I've been using a .o22 for the 6th string. So I'll try a .o20 and see if that helps. Thanks

Bob Blair · Post by **Bob Blair** » 18 Feb 2008 7:51 am

Have you checked the cross-shafts to see if they have a bit of side-to-side-play? If not, that might be the culprit. I encountered that issue with both of my Fessys at one time or another, but after I got walked through the "fix" by someone who knew what they were doing the problem was solved.