Source for small bits - tuning machine screw

Bob Bl. · #1 01-14-2010, 08:46 AM

I have a '63 Fender Jazz. One of the screws that holds the tuning machines to the neck fell out the other night(!). Fortunately, I had another instrument with me. But to add insult to injury, I could NOT find the dang screw at the end of the evening!

Does anyone know of a good source for odd bits? Your standard hardware store doesn't carry that kind of thing. Most of the online supply places seem to just sell the complete tuner. No luck at my local luthier, either. I really don't want to buy a whole new tuner just to cannabalize the screw...

Thanks - Bob

THand · #2 01-14-2010, 08:50 AM

http://www.basspartsresource.com/

PJSShearer · #3 01-14-2010, 08:53 AM

Until you do find the part you need, missing one out of 4 shouldn't be an issue - 2 of the machines on my my Fender P have only 3 screws holding them on (I replaced the machines years ago and then replaced the replacements!!).

T-Bird · #4 01-14-2010, 08:57 AM

Hi.

^I assume he's lost the wheel screw on the bottom of the tuner shaft.

That should be a regular UNF machine screw, right?

I'm more of a metric guy and as I don't own any imperial Fender parts I can't measure what the pitch and size could be.

Regards
Sam

202dy · #5 01-14-2010, 08:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bob Bl.

I have a '63 Fender Jazz. One of the screws that holds the tuning machines to the neck fell out the other night(!). Fortunately, I had another instrument with me. But to add insult to injury, I could NOT find the dang screw at the end of the evening!

Does anyone know of a good source for odd bits? Your standard hardware store doesn't carry that kind of thing. Most of the online supply places seem to just sell the complete tuner. No luck at my local luthier, either. I really don't want to buy a whole new tuner just to cannabalize the screw...

Thanks - Bob

Your local Brick and Mortar is the best source for small parts. If you're a good customer they'll probably give you the screw. It always helps to make a small purchase while you're there, too.

Failing that, pick up a piece of junk for a few bucks at a flea market or swap meet. Strip the parts off it. For most players it the booty will be a lifetime supply.

Bob Bl. · #6 01-14-2010, 10:16 AM

T-Bird is correct - it is the big screw at the bottom of the tuner shaft. The one that holds the tuning gear.

I believe this is it: http://www.basspartsresource.com/bass_screwstg.htm

Thanks!