SuperNoob Question: String Raises Fast, Returns Slow

Elliott Goldkind · From: California, USA

Hi all,

Sorry, I hardly even know the terminology to ask this question but I'm sure many of you will know exactly what I mean right away. Perhaps you can spare a second and give me some advice? I've got a pedal steel, standard 10-string E9. FYI, it's a Dekley student model, one knee, 3 pedals.

My problem is that my LOW G# string is having issues when I raise it to A via the middle pedal. It raises up just fine, but when I release the pedal it takes its sweet ol' time to come back to G#, so I'm sort of in microtonal hell for a while until it settles back.

The strings on it are VERY OLD, but I don't think that's the issue. (Tho I defer to you, cuz I know nothing!) Also, to be clear, the HIGH G# string goes up and down smoothly, normally.

I've tried to get a look at the thingy (I have no idea what the parts are called) that actually turns/revolves to make the string ascend/descend and I can see it moving, but slower on the descent, as described above.

So I guess the big question is, obviously, how do I fix it? New strings (nah?)? Some kind of lubricant? (Seems plausible; and if so, what do I use, how do I do it?) Or is it something more to do with the hardware, in which case I guess I'd have to give it to a pro to repair (which would suck, obviously).

Thanks everybody!!!

Donny Hinson · From: Glen Burnie, Md. U.S.A.

Sounds like it may just need some oil. Gun oil, sewing machine oil, or some other high quality oil on the changer and the rest of the moving parts should fix it. Oil lightly, everywhere parts move, and let it sit overnight.

Elliott Goldkind · From: California, USA

Thanks Donny! That's the answer I was hoping for. Will definitely try it out. Fingers crossed!

Paul Wade · From: mundelein,ill

Elliot
Turn the guitar over and at the fingers that move
The G# and put a drop or 2 in there and work
Pedal B back and forth. Next change strings
If you are a newbie there YouTube videos on how to
Change strings. Also maintenance on pedal steel guitar

Paul

David Nugent · From: Gum Spring, Va.

One piece of advice; Never use spray lubricant such as WD-40, it dries with a sticky texture which attracts dust and dirt in the air and may eventually gum up the changer. As recommended, use only a light machine oil.

Erv Niehaus · From: Litchfield, MN, USA

I had an Emmons that behaved that way.
The changer was sticky.
This product will take care of it.
You can find it at sporting goods stores.
It was made to clean the residue from shotguns.

Elliott Goldkind · From: California, USA

Thanks everyone! I ordered some of that CLP. Hopefully that's the ticket. Be safe everyone!

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