The Steel Guitar Forum

E9th neck on an Emmons ll: When I release my RKL which lowers my e's to e flat it does not return in tune accurate. For that I have to move a bit the lever that makes e to f. I have tried different bell crank whole positions and I turned the finger spring more to the endplate. The problem remains.
I'm shure this topic has been covered already. Thnx for any help.
Sigi

Both strings? (4 and 8?)
The purpose of a return spring is to return a lower to the proper pitch. Sounds like either one or both strings need a bit more tension on the return spring. You should be able to gently push the finger back into position (at rest against the changer) manually if the spring is the problem. Grasp the lower finger with pliers and check for any resistance or binding as you move the finger in and out. If there's nothing binding it is probably the return spring. Tighten it a bit more -- do one string at a time.

Is it returning flat or sharp? If it's flat, do what Larry suggests.

If it's coming back sharp that is called "hysterisis" and a common problem on strings that are both raised and lowered. One potential area is the roller nuts, if they are binding (very slightly) that can cause that. Otherwise, unless there are tuneable "drop return compensators" such as are on my Franklin generally there isn't much that can be done.

Glad I spotted this before starting a new topic. I've got a S10 GFI Ultra that I'm having the same problem with--the 4th string E returns flat from D#--even after a setup at Steel Guitar Nashville. I'll try out what you suggested, thanks.