5 Steps to String Old Fender Tuners * bigfinish.com

Featured Image: Image of an old Fender tuner with strings attached

When it comes to classic guitar tuners, nothing beats the vintage sound and feel of an old Fender tuner. These tuners have been used by countless legendary guitarists over the years, and they continue to be popular today for their unique character and reliability. If you’re lucky enough to own an old Fender tuner, you’ll want to keep it in good working order by restringing it regularly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to string an old Fender tuner:

First, you’ll need to gather a few tools. You’ll need a pair of needle-nose pliers, a small screwdriver, and a set of new strings. Once you have your tools, you can begin the restringing process. Start by removing the old strings from the tuner. To do this, simply use the needle-nose pliers to grip the old string and pull it out of the tuner. Be careful not to damage the tuner when you’re doing this.

Once the old strings are removed, you can begin installing the new ones. Start by threading the new string through the hole in the tuner. Then, wrap the string around the post on the tuner, making sure that the string is wound in the correct direction. Finally, tighten the string using the small screwdriver. Repeat this process for each of the six strings on the tuner. Once all of the strings are installed, you’re ready to start tuning your guitar. Simply turn the tuning pegs on the tuner until the strings are in tune. Congratulations! You’ve now successfully restrung your old Fender tuner.

Disassembling the Fender Tuner

Before you can restring your old Fender tuner, you need to disassemble it. This is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to take your time and be careful not to damage any of the parts.

Tools you’ll need:

Phillips head screwdriver
Flat head screwdriver
Pliers

Steps:

Remove the back cover. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws that hold the back cover in place. Be careful not to strip the screws. Once the screws are removed, you can carefully lift off the back cover.
Disconnect the wires. There will be two wires connected to the tuner. Use the flat head screwdriver to gently pry the wires loose. Be careful not to damage the wires or the terminals.
Remove the mounting screws. There will be four screws that hold the tuner in place. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove these screws.
Carefully lift out the tuner. Once the screws are removed, you can carefully lift the tuner out of the guitar. Be careful not to damage the tuner or the guitar.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps:

Step	Description
1	Remove the back cover.
2	Disconnect the wires.
3	Remove the mounting screws.
4	Carefully lift out the tuner.

Identifying the Correct Strings

Determining the String Windings

When it comes to selecting the right strings for your vintage Fender tuners, it’s crucial to consider the winding style of the strings. Each tuner has a specific winding pattern that it’s designed to accommodate. Strings with the incorrect winding can cause tuning instability and damage to the tuner.

There are two main types of string windings:

Round Wound

Round wound strings have a textured, uneven surface created by wrapping a round wire around a hexagonal core. This winding style produces a brighter, more metallic tone and provides increased grip for the fingers.

Flat Wound

Flat wound strings have a smooth, polished surface due to the winding of a flattened wire around a core. They produce a warmer, mellower tone with reduced finger noise.

Matching Strings to Tuner Specifications

To ensure proper fit and functionality, it’s essential to select strings that are specifically designed for the type of tuner you have. Fender tuners require strings with a certain headstock angle, string spacing, and winding direction.

Refer to the table below for guidance on matching strings to different Fender tuner models:

Tuner Model	String Windings	Headstock Angle	String Spacing
Kluson DLX	Round or Flat	14-16 degrees	0.090 inches
Schaller M6	Round	12-14 degrees	0.098 inches
Grover Rotomatic	Round or Flat	10-12 degrees	0.100 inches

Prepping the Strings for Installation

Before you begin stringing your Fender tuners, it’s crucial to prepare the strings properly to ensure their longevity and optimal performance.

### Stretching the Strings

Stretching new strings is an essential step that helps to stabilize them and prevent them from slipping out of tune prematurely. To stretch the strings, follow these steps:

Tune the strings up to tension, about one octave higher than standard pitch.

Pull on the strings with your fingers or a string winder, working your way from the lowest to the highest string.

Repeat this process several times until the strings no longer stretch or slip noticeably.

### Cleaning the Strings

Over time, strings can accumulate dirt, oil, and debris that can affect their sound and lifespan. Cleaning the strings regularly will help to remove these contaminants and keep them in optimal condition.

Use a soft, clean cloth dampened with water or isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe down the strings.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or cleaning solutions containing harsh chemicals.

Dry the strings thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent moisture buildup.

### Winding the Strings onto the Tuners

Once the strings are stretched and cleaned, you can begin winding them onto the tuners.

Remember to wind the strings in the correct direction to ensure proper tension and avoid string breakage. Typically, strings should be wound clockwise on the tuners, starting from the bottom and working your way up.

Inserting the Strings into the Tuner Body

1. Prepare the String

Loosen the tuning peg to create ample slack in the string. Remove the ball end and straighten the wire for about an inch using a pair of pliers.

2. Insert the String Through the Tuner Hole

Locate the string hole at the bottom of the tuner body. Push the straightened end of the string through until it extends about an inch out the top.

3. Bend the String Over the Roller

Take the extended portion of the string and bend it around the roller at the top of the tuner body. Ensure it passes cleanly over the roller and lies flat.

4. Secure the String at the Post

Wrap the string around the post in a clockwise direction. Create 2-3 tight windings to anchor the string. When wrapping, ensure the string doesn’t cross over or overlap itself. Continue wrapping until there’s approximately half an inch of string extending beyond the post.

Proper Winding Technique	Improper Winding Technique
String winds cleanly around the post without crossing or overlapping.	String crosses itself or overlaps, creating binding and potential breakage.

Proper Winding Technique

Improper Winding Technique

String winds cleanly around the post without crossing or overlapping.

String crosses itself or overlaps, creating binding and potential breakage.

Winding the Strings onto the Gear

With the string secured at the bridge, it’s time to start winding it onto the tuning gear. Hold the guitar upright and guide the string up and over the gear’s post. Leave a bit of slack, about an inch or two, so that the string can stretch as it’s being tuned later.

Start winding the string onto the gear in the direction that will tighten it when you turn the gear peg. For most guitars, this means winding counterclockwise.

Make sure to keep the string neat and tidy as you wind it. Avoid crossing the string over itself or creating any sharp angles. This will help to prevent the string from binding or breaking.

Once you’ve finished winding the string onto the gear, there should be about two to three complete wraps around the post. This will provide enough tension to keep the string in place while also allowing it to stretch as needed.

Secure the string at the tuning peg by pulling it upwards and over the top of the post. Then, wrap it around the gear’s base once or twice to keep it in place.

Now, you can proceed to tune the string to the desired pitch by turning the gear peg clockwise.

To make it easier to follow, here’s a summary of the steps involved in winding the strings onto the gear:

Step	Description
1	Hold the guitar upright and guide the string up and over the gear’s post.
2	Wind the string onto the gear counterclockwise.
3	Keep the string neat and tidy, avoiding crossings or sharp angles.
4	Wind the string around the gear’s post two to three times.
5	Secure the string by pulling it over the top of the post and wrapping it around the gear’s base.

Tightening the Screws and Knobs

After installing the tuners, it’s crucial to ensure they are securely fastened to the guitar’s headstock. Tightening the screws and knobs correctly will prevent the tuners from becoming loose or rattling. Use a small Phillips-head screwdriver to gently tighten each screw until it feels snug but not overly tight.

Screw Tightening

When tightening the screws, follow these steps for each tuner:

Screw Alignment: Inspect the screws to ensure they are aligned with the holes on the headstock and the tuner plate.
Gradual Tightening: Gradually tighten each screw, alternating between tuners to distribute the tension evenly.
Avoid Overtightening: Avoid overtightening the screws, as this can damage the wood or strip the screws.
Snug Fit: Aim for a snug fit where the tuner is securely attached but not excessively tight.
Final Check: Once all the screws are tightened, gently wiggle each tuner to ensure it is secure.

Knob Tightening

Once the screws are tightened, it’s time to attach the knobs onto the tuning pegs:

Knob Placement: Align the knobs with the pegs and push them down onto the knurled shafts.
Pressure Application: Apply steady downward pressure until the knobs feel secure.
Knocking Prevention: If the knobs feel loose, lightly tap them with a small hammer to secure them.
Set Screw Tightening: Some knobs have set screws. Use a small hex key to tighten these screws to prevent the knobs from rotating.
Final Examination: Ensure the knobs are firmly attached and rotate smoothly without any rattling or slipping.

Tuning the Strings

To tune the strings of your Fender guitar with old-style tuners, follow these steps:

1. Tune the “E” String

Insert the high “E” string into the hole on the tuner post and wind it around the post. Pull the string taut and insert it into the bridge. Tune the string using the fifth fret of the fifth string (low “A”) as a reference.

2. Tune the “B” String

Follow the same procedure as for the “E” string, but use the fourth fret of the fourth string (low “D”) as a reference.

3. Tune the “G” String

Insert the “G” string and wind it around the post. Tune the string using the fifth fret of the third string (low “C”) as a reference.

4. Tune the “D” String

Follow the same procedure as for the “G” string, but use the fifth fret of the second string (low “E”) as a reference.

5. Tune the “A” String

Insert the “A” string and wind it around the post. Tune the string using the fifth fret of the first string (high “E”) as a reference.

6. Tune the Low “E” String

Insert the low “E” string and wind it around the post. Tune the string using a tuner or by ear, aiming for a pitch that resonates with the other strings.

7. Fine-tune the Strings

Once all the strings are roughly tuned, you can fine-tune them by gently adjusting the tension on each tuner post. Use a tuner to ensure each string is at the correct pitch and adjust as needed. The table below provides the standard tuning for a Fender guitar:

String	Tuning
1 (High E)	E
2 (B)	B
3 (G)	G
4 (D)	D
5 (A)	A
6 (Low E)	E

Checking for Correct Alignment

Aligning the strings correctly is crucial for proper tuning and intonation. Once you’ve threaded the string through the machine head, follow these steps to ensure its alignment:

Hold the string taught: Keep slight tension on the string while you align it.
Observe the string’s path: Trace the string’s path from the machine head to the nut. It should run straight and not touch any other strings.
Check for buzz: If the string touches any other string, you’ll notice a buzzing sound when you pluck it. Adjust the string’s alignment accordingly.
Avoid excessive string wrapping: Ensure there are no more than two wraps of string around the machine head post. Excessive wrapping can cause tuning instability.
Use a string winder (optional): A string winder can make winding strings easier, especially on vintage tuners with smaller posts.

Once you’ve checked the alignment of all the strings, you’re ready to tune your Fender guitar.

String	Machine Head Orientation
高音 E	Top
B	Top
G	Bottom
D	Bottom
A	Top
Low E	Bottom

Note: Some Fender models may have slightly different machine head orientations. Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific guitar model.

Troubleshooting Common Stringing Issues

String Breaking

Causes:
– Not enough string wound on the tuner post
– Sharp edges on the nut or saddle
– Worn or damaged string

Solutions:
– Wind the string at least two full turns around the tuner post
– Use a file to smooth any sharp edges on the nut or saddle
– Replace the damaged string

String Slipping

Causes:
– Not enough tension on the string
– Worn or damaged nut or saddle
– Misalignment of the string in the nut or saddle

Solutions:
– Check the tuning machine to ensure it is working properly
– Replace or repair the damaged or worn nut or saddle
– Realign the string in the nut or saddle

String Buzzing

Causes:
– Loose string
– Fret not fully seated
– Neck not fully adjusted

Solutions:
– Check the tuning machine to ensure it is working properly.
– Check the frets to make sure they are fully seated.
– Check the neck relief and adjust as needed.

String Tuning Instability

Causes:
– Worn or damaged tuning machine
– Loose set screw on the tuning machine
– Incorrect string gauge for the instrument

Solutions:
– Replace or repair the damaged tuning machine
– Tighten the loose set screw
– Use the correct string gauge for your instrument

String Popping Out of Nut

Causes:
– Not enough string wound on the tuning post
– Nut slot not wide enough

Solutions:
– Wind the string at least two full turns around the tuning post
– Use a file to widen the nut slot

String Getting Stuck in Nut

Causes:
– Nut slot too tight
– String not properly lubricated

Solutions:
– Use a file to widen the nut slot
– Lubricate the string with a light lubricant

String Not Winding Smoothly on Tuning Post

Causes:
– Tuning machine post bent or damaged
– String not properly lubricated

Solutions:
– Replace or repair the bent or damaged tuning machine
– Lubricate the string with a light lubricant

String Breaking at Tuning Machine

Causes:
– Tuning machine post bent or damaged
– String not properly wound on the tuning machine
– Too much tension on the string

Solutions:
– Replace or repair the bent or damaged tuning machine
– Wind the string properly on the tuning machine
– Loosen the tension on the string

String Breaking at Bridge

Causes:
– Bridge saddle not properly adjusted
– Sharp edges on the bridge or saddle

Solutions:
– Adjust the bridge saddle so that the string is properly seated
– File any sharp edges on the bridge or saddle

String Getting Tangled

Causes:
– Strings not properly wound around the tuning machine
– Strings not properly dressed over the nut and saddle

Solutions:
– Wind the strings properly around the tuning machine
– Dress the strings properly over the nut and saddle

Materials You’ll Need:

Fender tuner
Guitar strings
String winder (optional)
Tuner (optional)

Steps:

Prepare the Tuner:

Remove the old strings from the tuner using a string winder or by hand.

Start with the Low E String:

Identify the post for the low E string (usually the thickest post).

Insert the String End:

Thread the end of the low E string through the hole at the base of the post.

Wind the String:

Use a string winder or wrap the string around the post by hand, leaving a few wraps at the top.

Tune the String:

Use a tuner or tune by ear to match the low E note.

Repeat for Other Strings:

Follow steps 2-5 for the remaining strings in the order: A, D, G, B, and high E.

Cut Excess String:

Once all strings are strung and tuned, cut off any excess string at the tuning machines.

Check String Tension:

Gently pluck each string and adjust the tuning if necessary.

Secure the Strings:

Tighten the screws holding the string posts firmly in place.

10.

Maintaining the Stringed Fender Tuner

Proper maintenance is crucial for optimal performance:

Keep the tuner clean by wiping it down with a soft cloth.
Lubricate the tuning machines periodically with a light machine oil.
Avoid exposing the tuner to extreme temperatures or humidity.
Store the tuner in a dry and protected environment when not in use.
Inspect the strings regularly and replace them as needed.

How to String Old Fender Tuners

Stringing old Fender tuners can be a daunting task, but it is not impossible. With the right tools and a little patience, you can get the job done right. Here are the steps on how to string old Fender tuners:

Gather your tools. You will need a set of allen wrenches, a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, and a new set of strings.
Remove the old strings. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the strings in place. Once the screws are loose, you can pull the strings out of the tuner posts.
Clean the tuner posts. Use the flat head screwdriver to clean any dirt or debris from the tuner posts. This will help to ensure that the new strings will stay in place.
Install the new strings. Insert the new strings into the tuner posts. Make sure that the strings are wound in the correct direction. The strings should be wound around the post in a clockwise direction.
Tighten the screws. Use the allen wrenches to tighten the screws that hold the strings in place. Make sure that the strings are tight enough so that they will not slip, but not so tight that they will break.
Tune the strings. Use a tuner to tune the strings to the correct pitch. Start by tuning the low E string, and then work your way up to the high E string.