String return is flat

Eddie Freeman · Post by **Eddie Freeman** » 21 Apr 2021 11:08 am

My E to D# comes back flat? I think this has been covered on here before but I can't find it, any help on this? I have to tap my EtoF lever to get it back to pitch?

James Polk · Post by **James Polk** » 21 Apr 2021 11:31 am

It may be binding/catching somewhere. Best bet is probably to flip it over, press your lever, and trace the path. Find where the catch is and put a half drop of oil there.

Jerry Overstreet · Post by **Jerry Overstreet** » 21 Apr 2021 11:49 am

Not knowing what guitar you have nor whether it's all pull, push-pull or pull and realease, I'll offer some general info for the all-pull system:

Check the return spring for not pulling the finger back to the stop.

Put your finger under the changer and feel the finger you are operating. When you release the lever, see if you can pull the finger back toward the changer stop. If so, the spring needs to be tighter. Doesn't take much....maybe a half turn or so.

Bobby D. Jones · Post by **Bobby D. Jones** » 26 Apr 2021 6:42 pm

From your statement that hitting the F knee lever brings it back in tune, Check the nut rollers. Make sure the rollers are free moving and lubed.

Kelcey ONeil · Post by **Kelcey ONeil** » 28 Apr 2021 5:51 pm

Regardless of model, it is most likely the return spring for that string not having sufficient tension to return it to the neutral position, and raising the string helps return it there when it is released. Also, overtuning can sometimes do this, there is an entire sticky on this at the top of the pedal steel page on this forum. Lastly, I could be the nut rollers not turning freely, however it is rare for this to cause more than a slight effect.