Oiling new tuning machines

anthon_74 · October 2015

Hey there,

I just installed a new set of Gitane deluxe tuners on my DG 300 (one of the old set broke), and I'm noticing that they're noticeably stiff and difficult to turn.
Does one simply oil the gears to fix this issue ? If so, what kind of oil would you use to oil them ? WD 40 ? food grade oil ?

Thanks,

Anthony

Jazzaferri · October 2015

I would use a dry lube if any. In my experience they free up some over time. If they are really stiff I would see if you can exchange them. To me thats more likely a QC issue than lube.

AndrewUlle · October 2015

maybe loosen the screw on the gear?

Jazzaferri · October 2015

Good thinking...if my search is right they are eosed gear tuners and the screw should be adjustable.

anthon_74 · October 2015

Nope. I tried it. It didn't change it at all.

Jazzaferri · October 2015

Hmmmm....did you try lube.....sounds a bit like the gears are set up with too much preload..or misdrilled. Dont have a set to see the details but if they are really really stiff you might consider returning them if you can. Shouldnt feel hard to move...snug maybe but not hard

Ken Bloom · October 2015

New tuning machines are often rather tight. They have to wear in a bit. Loosening the screw that holds the gear will not do it. If you take a tuning machine crank and just rotate the shaft a lot, it will loosen up and wear in. The brass gear is soft and needs to matchup with the worm more precisely. After the gear has seated well with the worm, then a little lubrication will help.

Ken Bloom
http://www.boweddulcimer.org