Fender 800 Tuningproblems

Andy Zahnd · Post by **Andy Zahnd** » 28 Oct 2023 11:31 pm

I have once again set up my old Fender 800. I think the sound is unique! Where I have a big problem, I can not bring the pedals enough in tune. Too little way with the screwdriver! Can someone explain to me the mechanics. Preferably in a simple way.... I am not a technician! Also I would like to use the 3rd pedal as pedal C. How can I rehang the cables and get them in tune? I would appreciate any help! Have a nice sunday to all

Michael Sawyer · Post by **Michael Sawyer** » 29 Oct 2023 5:43 am

Where to start....
First- make sure you have the correct string gauges for the tuning you are using.
Second- is the old girl clean thru the pull chain and changer.
Third- run the screws all the way in.
Tune at keyhead open.Then start by gently mashing the pedal and adjusting the screw a little at the time.I go back to the keyhead after each adjustment and re-check the open string,to see if it has moved.
Back and forth ,till the string quits moving in pitch in the open position.Tune the pedal- mash,check pitch- i let off and adjust.
Pre stretching the strings before you mess with pedals eliminates alot of the back and forth.

Hopefully you can make sense out of this,i aint great at explaining things.
Others here are more knowledgable than me,but i have 2 400s and gigged with one for 5 years.

Dave Zirbel · Post by **Dave Zirbel** » 29 Oct 2023 6:04 am

Andy, I noticed you are on Facebook. You can join a Fender Pedal steel group and go to the “files” section that has a link to the owner’s manual. You might get more input and feedback from the members since they love their Fenders.
https://m.facebook.com/groups/164876960 ... tid=Na33Lf

Sounds like a simple fix…

Dave

Donny Hinson · Post by **Donny Hinson** » 29 Oct 2023 2:36 pm

The most-often seen operator error with the Fender cable steels is over-tightening the turnbuckles. If you tighten them too much, it pulls the fingers away from the stops, activating a change. This means you have, in essence, a “floating” finger. (It won’t return to the same place when deactivated, and you’ll also lose some of the travel in the changer which means you might not be able to reach the desired note.) Not enough slack or too much slack both cause problems, so be careful when adjusting the turnbuckles! They need to be tight enough so the cables don't "sag", but not so tight as to acticate the changer fingers.

Ethan Shaw · Post by **Ethan Shaw** » 31 Oct 2023 10:42 am

I second Donny's advice, and I would also definitely get the manual Dave linked to. It can be frustrating at first, but they're not difficult to work on once you get to know them.

Andy Zahnd · Post by **Andy Zahnd** » 1 Nov 2023 1:52 am

Dear Fender Steelers

thanks for any input and it helped me a lot. After intensive study of the manuals I have slowly understood...my fender 800 is in tune like never before. It's fun to play. I love the sound. Thanks again and I hope I can help someone with my tips someday! The Steelfamily is great!