Hipshot Ultralite Orientation Switch Question

[nervous]

OK, I have a 3x3 setup on my Cirrus and am installing a new set of Hipshot Ultralite tuners. Changing their orientation from right side to left side is obvious and simple. My problem right now if that they originally gave some sort of thread locking goo which keeps them very secure. As soon as they are disassembled the effect of that product is gone and on reassembly the small Allen screws will no longer stay tight when the tuner is turned. That screw immediately loosens and is very frustrating. That's not how they should be.

The question is what product did you successfully use as a replacement thread-locking product to bring them back to their original factory security? I have Loctite Blue but before using it I'd like some opinions and experiences if possible.

[knucklehead G]

Hipshot sells right- and left-side Ultralites.. I don't think you're supposed to take those apart. The vintage-style ones, sure, but Ultralites are sealed and factory-lubricated to make sure you never have to open them.

[nervous]

Originally Posted by knucklehead G

Hipshot sells right- and left-side Ultralites.. I don't think you're supposed to take those apart. The vintage-style ones, sure, but Ultralites are sealed and factory-lubricated to make sure you never have to open them.

It was my understanding on all the I could find before buying that the style that you picture on the left are indeed reversible and I could not even find sold as left or right.

Here's what their own website says:

*Unique design allows quick and easy conversion to bass or treble side, no double left and right hand stocking hassle.*

And, Guitar Parts Resource says:

*Reversible for right or left hand use.*

I have them switched over easily, the only issue is with the screws staying tight.

And, it's really not a sealed tuner like the Gotoh style that is on there now. It's clearly an open gear style tuner. The worm gear is just shrouded by the housing.

[knucklehead G]

http://bestbassgear.com/hipshot-ultralight-tuners.htm

Bass or Treble side.

..but I do see on Hipshotproducts.com that they say they are easily converted.. I just don't think an easy conversion would involve having to buy some other product to make it work.

[Zooberwerx]

Yes, I have converted more than a handful. Use the proper hex key; I believe its a 0.05. Its easy to round out the hex heads if not careful. I've run across a few that were so stubborn that I had to cut slots with my Dremel to accommodate a FH screwdriver. Jason @ Hipshot keeps me well stocked with spares. Once you've reversed the mechanism, clean any residual thread sealant from the retainer / tension screw. Not sure what they use but its fairly brittle and separates easily. I use blue Loctite; the green and red both require heat for removal if it ever comes to that. Insert and re-tighten the hex screw til snug. Do not overtighten as this may actually deform either the underlying metal and / or nylon washers. Allow the Loctite to cure before testing and re-installing.

Edit: the US Hipshot Ultralites are reversible by design, the lic'd imports are not.

Riis

[nervous]

Originally Posted by knucklehead G

http://bestbassgear.com/hipshot-ultralight-tuners.htm

Bass or Treble side.

..but I do see on Hipshotproducts.com that they say they are easily converted.. I just don't think an easy conversion would involve having to buy some other product to make it work.

Very interesting. Perhaps they make the swap in house before shipping? Thanks.

[nervous]

Originally Posted by Zooberwerx

use blue Loctite; the green and red both require heat for removal if it ever comes to that. Insert and re-tighten the hex screw til snug. Do not overtighten as this may actually deform either the underlying metal and / or nylon washers. Allow the Loctite to cure before testing and re-installing.

Edit: the US Hipshot Ultralites are reversible by design, the lic'd imports are not.

Riis

Thanks. That is exactly what I was thinking of doing. I will go do the blue right now and let them sit overnight.

Thanks for the confirmation.

[Zooberwerx]

Originally Posted by nervous

Thanks. That is exactly what I was thinking of doing. I will go do the blue right now and let them sit overnight.

Thanks for the confirmation.

This has worked for me and I like 'em really snug.

Riis