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Topic: Sticky finger(s) |
Sam Hammond
From:
Alameda, California
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Posted 1 Feb 2017 1:16 pm |
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The fifth finger on my Emmons S10 has decided to get sticky - I can see the sticking point - but I don't know what to do about it.
I know it needs cleaning, but I think this is different. The finger is rubbing up against the "wall" that separates it from the other fingers. (red arrow) If I move the wall the sticking is relieved, and the finger moves well. As soon as it settle back into place, though, it sticks again.
I'm sure this is common, and, even if it isn't, you guys have a solution.
Thanks in advance.
Sam
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Thom Washburn
From:
Texas, USA
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Posted 1 Feb 2017 4:12 pm
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Sam, is it possible that due to the angle of the pull rod, it's pushing the finger towards the "wall?" Maybe try routing the hook from the other side. Else, for general metal-to-metal contact, I use a lubricant called "Dri-Slide." It's a Moly powder suspended in a liquid that evaporates after application and is extremely effective. It is quite messy though, so go for the drip bottle, dont over-apply it, and DO NOT get it in your eyes. Good luck!
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Sam Hammond
From:
Alameda, California
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Posted 1 Feb 2017 4:54 pm re: Sticky Finger(s)
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Thanks, Thom.
I'm thinking it could be the hook on the next finger over that's pushing on the "wall" (what IS the name of that thing?) and causing the problem.
The lube sounds good, and I'll pick some up, but I'm worried that, if I continue to use the pedals, even with the Dri-Slide, I might be damaging the instrument.
Sam |
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Ian Worley
From:
Sacramento, CA
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Posted 1 Feb 2017 7:12 pm
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The "wall" is the lowering finger. They're meant to be close together. If the guitar has a lot of miles it is likely that the fingers (both raises and lowers) are loose on the axle, which can allow some excess lateral movement. It may just need lubrication, but you don't want any extra lateral pressure from something mis-aligned.
If someone has replaced the hook on string 5 with something slightly larger than stock, then what you suggested could be your issue, the space there is limited. Something is not quite right though, the lowering fingers should all be aligned when at rest. Five is clearly further to the right in your pic but it's hard to see what's going on in the zoomed-in pic. You likely have multiple adjustment issues.
These things are very logical mechanically, not rocket science, but it's hard to diagnose something like this very precisely without seeing it up close and in motion. I'm certain however, that there will be no shortage of varying opinions on what's wrong and how to fix it posted here soon. If your not comfortable with tinkering on it yourself though, your best bet is to find someone to nearby to have a look. Tom Bradshaw in Walnut Creek is one of the best. There are others in your neighborhood too. If you're ever up the road in Sac I'd be happy to have a look and help you sort it out. |
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Sam Hammond
From:
Alameda, California
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Posted 6 Feb 2017 9:22 am Sticky fingers and Tom Bradshaw
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So the good news is, I made a silly (stupid) mistake, in that I was putting my strings in the "groove" which of course was the space between the fingers - no wonder they were rubbing against one another. (That dull ringing sound you hear is me slapping my forehead.)
The better news is I got to hang with Tom Bradshaw for an hour and a half while he politely "fixed" and set up my guitar. What an honor!
Anyway, the guitar rings like a bell, and I learned some engineering principles and tuning tips that are sure to serve me while I try to learn to play this baby.
Thank you for your support here, and thank you, Tommy Bradshaw.
Sam |
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