Epi Thunderbird -03 tuners, aluminium shafts???

[T-Bird]

Hi.

I must say I was amazed to say the least. As a machinist by hobby and a degree in mechanical engineering, I do know that aluminium does come with variety of hardnesses for different applications and for the 99s' or so the use is elecrical cables .

The shaft of the epi tuner seems to be just that. The splined portion snapped right off and needless to say I was PISSED.

Obviously it wasn't anything that an hour with a lathe and Dremel wouldn't cure, but such a degree of cost- and weight cutting measures are plain stupid IMHO.

The machine head is easy to dismantle and the shaft is relatively simple, so if I redo the remaining 3, I'll set up my Bridgeport for the milling of the splines. The work with a Dremel wasn't all that accurate

What would be a feasible alternative for me if I don't make new shafts? I've looked at the Hipshot ultralites, "Warwicks", Shallers and such. Any of those made out of brass or steel?

Don't worry about the possible increase in the dreaded neck-dive, I can handle it, I'm a big boy .

Regards.
Sam

[RED5]

Originally Posted by T-Bird

Hi.

I must say I was amazed to say the least. As a machinist by hobby and a degree in mechanical engineering, I do know that aluminium does come with variety of hardnesses for different applications and for the 99s' or so the use is elecrical cables .

The shaft of the epi tuner seems to be just that. The splined portion snapped right off and needless to say I was PISSED.

Obviously it wasn't anything that an hour with a lathe and Dremel wouldn't cure, but such a degree of cost- and weight cutting measures are plain stupid IMHO.

The machine head is easy to dismantle and the shaft is relatively simple, so if I redo the remaining 3, I'll set up my Bridgeport for the milling of the splines. The work with a Dremel wasn't all that accurate

What would be a feasible alternative for me if I don't make new shafts? I've looked at the Hipshot ultralites, "Warwicks", Shallers and such. Any of those made out of brass or steel?

Don't worry about the possible increase in the dreaded neck-dive, I can handle it, I'm a big boy .

Regards.
Sam

I have Schallers on my Bird and have had to replace one as the shaft has a relief machined into it to make it reversible, and it snapped off. (Brass BTW) What were they thinking using Alum on the tuners? I've seen pot metal ones but never AL? Fender makes what they call "Vintage" tuners. I put a set on my Jazz, and I'm liking 'em. Brass again, nickle finish. period correct for 60's and T-birds.