| Author |
Topic: Hex Tuning Wrench Headache! |
Dan Robinson
From:
Colorado, USA
|
Posted 15 Aug 2014 10:25 pm |
|
My Sho-Bud S10 uses a hex allen wrench to adjust pulls.
I'm having two issues with this system. First, inserting the wrench is awkward. Not a big deal, since I'm doing a tune-up on this old beauty, and it should need less finagling when I am done.
Second problem is the wrench falling out of the keyhead. I'll make an adjustment, then step on a pedal to check it, and the wrench falls on the floor. Well, not every time, only on a stage, when it's dark, or when the floor has hiding places or camouflage. I keep at least two wrenches on the deck so I can finish adjustments without retrieving a wrench. This seems to happen more often than it used to, but maybe I just have less patience for such nonsense.
Can rods be replaced with rods that have nylon ends? Can the ends of existing rods be modified? Different wrench that stays put?
Thanks for your ideas on solving this.
Dan |
|
|
 |
Skip Edwards
From:
LA,CA
|
Posted 15 Aug 2014 10:35 pm
|
|
Nylon ends equals a whole different system underneath...not only would you have to replace the rods, but also how they attach at the pullers.
Hex ends with either racks or two holers is a great setup.
Try getting a hex wrench that has a large round handle, like from PSG parts. I think there's also another supplier here on the Forum.
Even with nylon ends, you're still gonna drop a tuning wrench from time to time. |
|
|
|
Lane Gray
From:
Topeka, KS
|
Posted 15 Aug 2014 11:26 pm
|
|
I have a couple thoughts, and I think I prefer the behavior solution to the equipment solution.
1) You said "when I step on the pedqp, the rod falls out." Only put the wrench on the pull when it's engaged could eliminate that.
2) a couple drops of Plasti Dip (a liquid or spray on rubber stuff, meant as gripping and protection coating for tools) could both make the recesses smaller and grippier.
Not too much, or you'd have trouble getting the took in. Or you could apply it to the wrench.
_________________
2 pedal steels, a lapStrat, and an 8-string Dobro (and 3 ukes)
More amps than guitars, and not many effects |
|
|
|
Edward Rhea
From:
Medford Oklahoma, USA
|
Posted 16 Aug 2014 5:30 am
|
|
Dan, I haven't experienced tuning issues on my ShoBud to justify leaving the wrench on the changer tuner, at least not as I play. I can't seem to upload pics, but if you email me I'll gladly send you photos of a tuning wrench I have...it's a 2" bit w/a removable stubby driver handle. While I won't guarantee that it will stay in place as you play, it's serving me well and if it drops, I've no trouble finding it! I have about $5 invested in it and purchased at a tool store.
Another option may be, to run some masking tape around the shaft of the hex tool, so that it is more visible in low light situations. Good luck
_________________
“TONESNOB” |
|
|
|
Lane Gray
From:
Topeka, KS
|
Posted 16 Aug 2014 5:38 am
|
|
Masking tape might also both make it fit tighter and have some friction.
_________________
2 pedal steels, a lapStrat, and an 8-string Dobro (and 3 ukes)
More amps than guitars, and not many effects |
|
|
|
Clyde Lane
From:
Glasgow, Kentucky, USA
|
Posted 16 Aug 2014 5:42 am
|
|
Magnetize the wrench.
_________________
Clyde Lane |
|
|
|
chris ivey
From:
california (deceased)
|
Posted 16 Aug 2014 7:54 am
|
|
| keep your hand on the wrench. |
|
|
|
Dan Robinson
From:
Colorado, USA
|
Posted 16 Aug 2014 9:29 am
|
|
Thanks for the replies.
The wrench does not stay inserted while I am playing; sorry if I conveyed that impression. After making an adjustment it's helpful to hear the results by picking the string, and as a two or three note chord, then applying the pedal or knee-lever. That's where the troublesome falling out happens.
An allen wrench with a large round handle is appealing, like the one in the picture that is available from PSG Parts. I will experiment with ways to make it more "sticky." The magetic idea is intriguing.
 |
|
|
|
Dale Lee
From:
Down Yonder
|
|
|
|
Dan Robinson
From:
Colorado, USA
|
Posted 16 Aug 2014 5:27 pm
|
|
Dale, the lanyard is a great idea. That's actually the first thing my wife said when I mentioned this, but it took another steel player to get the message through my thick skull.
Dan |
|
|
|
