First time changing strings

Sixthofjune44 · #1 01-19-2010, 06:17 PM

Hi all,

I picked up a set of the FMI Pro Weedwackers, and was getting ready to start swapping them out. I currently am running on La Bella 7010's (Black Nylon Wrapped Steels). I've tried to do my homework and was expecting to have to make room on my bridge and nut as these are thicker strings. I was nervous enough then, but when I removed the E and started getting the new weedwacker test fitted, I noticed that the string is too wide to fit into the hole in my tuning peg!!!

Can anybody tell me what I can do to remedy this? How can I get the string to take and grip the peg so I can get it wound up?

As far as the filing goes, I've planning on using a small round hobby file to widen my slots. I assume the old addage of a little at a time and you can always take off, but it's pretty tough to put back on works here. I know the super glue & baking powder trick, but if all goes to plan, I shouldn't run into this.

Lastly, how long do you think this first time setup will take? 1 to 2 hours, or 4 to 5? I unfortunately have to do this after my two jobs and still try to make time w/ the wife. If I get one or two strings changed, can I leave the other two non wackers on until I can get back to the project?

Thanks all in advance,

Paul

Paul Warburton · #2 01-19-2010, 06:47 PM

Sorry not to be of any help, but I really enjoyed reading your post.
Thanks.

Greg Clinkingbeard · #3 01-19-2010, 07:22 PM

Get those wackers off.

Sixthofjune44 · #4 01-20-2010, 06:14 AM

I know wackers are a sin, but I play early rock & roll, classic country, and rockabilly. I use pizz and am starting to learn slap. Down the line I'd like to invest in guts, but for now this is the plan.

Any other thoughts?

Paul

Paul Warburton · #5 01-20-2010, 06:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by clink

Get those wackers off.

This just sounds weird.

Bass · #6 01-20-2010, 07:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sixthofjune44

...I noticed that the string is too wide to fit into the hole in my tuning peg!!!...

I don't understand why PW enjoyed your post. I thought it was kind of long and boring, and not even very funny.

Just use your imagination with the fat string. If it were me I'd use a jack-knife and take very fine strips off the last inch of the string. Or maybe just forget about the hole and wrap it around the peg till it gets started?

If it were me, I wouldn't be using "wackers" either. I very much prefer Innovation strings, I like the Rockabillies, but for you it sounds like Silver Slaps might be more appropriate.

Greg Clinkingbeard · #7 01-20-2010, 07:59 AM

Paul D-day,
As Bas said, you may be able to wrap the strings around the post to get them started. You could loop the string around the post and twist the loose end around and start it that way, or possibly hold the loose end and try to keep it under the string as it comes up to pitch. With the tension holding it between the post and string it may hold that way. Good luck.

Greg Clinkingbeard · #8 01-20-2010, 08:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paul Warburton

This just sounds weird.

Yea, what's yer point?

Sixthofjune44 · #9 01-20-2010, 09:41 AM

Thanks guys. I aprreciate the help.
Paul

Clink- You've broken my code!

PsychoScout · #10 01-20-2010, 10:01 AM

Perhaps your DB just does not want those strings?

They're like women, have a mind of their own, there's no point in arguing if mademoiselle has decided already.

ps: sorry, i'm home sick, have a fever for the first time in my life (for real), and i'm bored out of my mind

Uncletoad · #11 01-20-2010, 11:02 AM

So Bass did I read that correctly? Are you suggesting he Jack off the Whackers?

No wait, Whack of the whackers with his Jack.

PsychoScout · #12 01-20-2010, 11:46 AM

strange name for strings, weedwhackers... sounds like something to use in the garden... or for smoking pot...

i'm pretty sure these little fellas use weedwhackers all the time:

yups... still bored

Greg Clinkingbeard · #13 01-20-2010, 12:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Uncletoad

So Bass did I read that correctly? Are you suggesting he Jack off the Whackers?

No wait, Whack of the whackers with his Jack.

Phil, I'm hurt.

When you saw MY post did you really think Bass came up (pun intended) with that witticism?

Greg Clinkingbeard · #14 01-20-2010, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Uncletoad

So Bass did I read that correctly? Are you suggesting he Jack off the Whackers?

No wait, Whack of the whackers with his Jack.

Phil, I'm hurt.

When you saw MY post did you really think Bass came up (pun intended) with that witticism?

Even Warmbottom got it....

Uncletoad · #15 01-20-2010, 12:09 PM

I was going for the oblique whack.

Bass · #16 01-20-2010, 01:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Uncletoad

...Jack off the Whackers?...

Ha! Funny.

**Francois Blais** · #17 01-20-2010, 01:18 PM

Ok guys, this is very funny, but not much helpful for the OP.
Anyone can offer real advices, besides what Bass and clink suggested?

Thanks!

Marcus Johnson · #18 01-20-2010, 05:23 PM

I wonder if you could compress the end of the string with some pliers or something, just enough to get it started in the tuner?

Jake deVilliers · #19 01-20-2010, 08:02 PM

Sorry. If the 'string' won't fit, drill out the tuner shafts as necessary.

Marcus Johnson · #20 01-20-2010, 08:17 PM

Oooh, man, that sounds a little scary to a non-luthing guy like me.

Which brings up a point.... if you have a DB luthier nearby, thank your lucky stars. I still find it hard to believe that a good DB luthier and a very talented bow technician both live within a few minutes of my home on this little rock in the middle of the ocean. I am very grateful for that.