Tightening original Kluson tuners

[bfmitchell]

Can this be done? After tuning and playing, I have to retune within 30-45 minutes. New strings did not solve my problem. Any help would be appreciated.

[Greg_L]

Are you sure it's the tuners? I'm no luthier, but in my experience tuners rarely create problems. Tuning problems are usually in the bridge or nut. Guitars with trems are even more problematic unless it's a locking Floyd Rose style.

[vjf1968]

Can this be done? After tuning and playing, I have to retune within 30-45 minutes. New strings did not solve my problem. Any help would be appreciated.

Do mean that the tuners are wobbling in the holes of the headstock?

[bfmitchell]

Could the "gear" under the tuner cover be worn or loose? The tuning keys are solid in the headstock seat.

[Mr. Bill]

If you are talking about the standard Kluson Deluxe tuner, as used on hundreds of different guitars, the back cover is what holds all of the parts together and sets the tension of the mechanism.

Back in the '60s, Kluson used to recommend that the gear be removed from the guitar and placed flat on its' back, post up. Then using a center punch or a nail set, lightly hammer the two tabs that hold the cover on the base plate inwards, to tighten the fit of the cover.

This sometimes works and sometimes doesn't. It depends on how much wear there is on the mating surfaces and how worn the parts are. In any case, it is just a temporary fix at best.

[panther]

You mention NEW STRINGS, Did you Stretch them, retune, Stretch, retune, Stretch, Retune.
You need to do that about 3 times.
Also if they are not strung properly, they may slip.
Dan

[bfmitchell]

Thanks for the tips! Will stretch, retune and repeat first and if no resolution, then remove tuner and adjust back cover. Thanks again.