The Steel Guitar Forum

Jerry and I were setting up his CLR Push-Pull and we have some changer problems we need some help with. He has pictures here: http://bb.steelguitarforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=195724

1-the RKR 6th string drop from a G# to the F#.
When we push on the drop lever and the changer with no rod connected (just the string) it will not move very far - even though the stop is backed off.

2-strings 2,3,4, and 5 when the lower lever is pushed the strings do not lower.

Does this sound like we need to remove the changer and just clean all the gunk out of it?

Thanks
Bill

I see no responses - I believe this changer is like an Emmons push pull.

Bill, use your thumb or finger of your choice. And push back on the changer finger you want to lower. Either the stop will be blocking you. Or a pull rod is holding you off because it doesn't have enough slack. Also a rod collar on the push rod may have slipped. or maybe all the above.

If you know what to look for it only takes a min to spot the above mentioned. If not. You can spend countless hours much like a dog chasing it's tail.

I advise having it looked at by someone who really understands PP's. I recommend Brian Adams. He could build it from scratch. And he's not very far from you. Mountain City Ten.
Good luck.
bb

I'm a bit confused when you say that the 6th finger only drops a small amount when you push on the drop lever, but there is no rod attached ?

So how can the drop lever have any effect at all if it is not connected ?

I would try operating the changer finger by hand, it's possible that the spring that holds the lowering portion of the finger against the body is way overtightened.

The other obvious possibility is that the rod that raises the 6th string doesn't have enough slack to allow the finger to lower, but you say the rod is not connected ?

Bill, as an after thought. It would be best to press the lowering member of each string to be lowered by hand. This is harder to do than pushing back on the raise finger.

But, you can quickly decide if it's the stop that holding you off. Or if the lowering side of the changer is locked for whichever string your checking. I really doubt the changer is locked. It may have some drag from not being used and or lubed. And as Richard mentioned. The lower return spring could be over tightened. But I'm sure Charles set it up right. And most tinkerers don't mess with them. They're too hard to get to.

bb

Thanks all - will dive into it.