String gauge change - tune issue

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Terry Srader
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Joined: 19 Nov 2003 1:01 am
Location: Georgia

String gauge change - tune issue

Post by Terry Srader »

Just changed to LiveStrings and different gauges.

Tuned all open strings no problem. When tuning string 6 (pedal A) to A, the open string goes higher as well.

Can soeone provide a "how to" when changing string gauges on what mechcanical change is needed to bring all strings into correct tuning.

Much thanks.
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Lane Gray
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Location: Topeka, KS

Post by Lane Gray »

That's a condition called "overtuning."
Did you go from a plain string to a wound one?
If so, you'll have to adjust the pedal to have more travel or move the pull rod farther out on the bellcrank, as wound strings need more finger movement to get the same amount of pitch change.
2 pedal steels, a lapStrat, and an 8-string Dobro (and 3 ukes)
More amps than guitars, and not many effects
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Erv Niehaus
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Post by Erv Niehaus »

Have you ever noticed those little white things on the right end of your guitar? Try cranking on them. :D
Terry Srader
Posts: 101
Joined: 19 Nov 2003 1:01 am
Location: Georgia

Post by Terry Srader »

Erv Niehaus wrote:Have you ever noticed those little white things on the right end of your guitar? Try cranking on them. :D
Thanks Erv :)

Yes, i've done that but that is what's making the open note to go sharp.
Bill C. Buntin
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Post by Bill C. Buntin »

What brand is the guitar Terry?
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Lane Gray
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Post by Lane Gray »

As to a guide for what happens when you change gauges, the following might help:
1: the core of a string (if wound. If plain, it's ALL core) is what matters.
2: if you make it smaller, you'll need to move the finger farther. If you go from plain to wound, you'll need to move it a BUNCH farther.
3: if you make it larger, the finger will need less travel.

2 and 3 can either be accomplished by re-rodding a change to use other holes in bellcranks and fingers or by adjusting pedal/lever stops.
Re-rodding makes more sense, because most changes work more than one string.
2 pedal steels, a lapStrat, and an 8-string Dobro (and 3 ukes)
More amps than guitars, and not many effects
Terry Srader
Posts: 101
Joined: 19 Nov 2003 1:01 am
Location: Georgia

Post by Terry Srader »

Bill C. Buntin wrote:What brand is the guitar Terry?
Carter SD-10 3&5
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