Tuner replacement on Laklland 55-02

[RDT]

I'd like to replace the tuners on my Lakland 55-02. I believe the stock tuners are Hipshot Ultra-lites (HB6C). I'd like something not so "touchy", bigger ratio...not sure what the Hipshot ratio is.

I have an Ibanez SR505 that I really like the tuners on. Not sure what brand they are, though. I know the SR5005's have Gotoh's on them, but not sure about the 505's. However, I love the ratio and consistency of the ones on my 505.

My Lakkie has 1/2" holes, that I do not want to enlarge.

I gig 3-5 nights a week, so weight and more importantly, durability is a factor.

Any suggestions?

[Zooberwerx]

Originally Posted by RDT

I'd like to replace the tuners on my Lakland 55-02. I believe the stock tuners are Hipshot Ultra-lites (HB6C). I'd like something not so "touchy", bigger ratio...not sure what the Hipshot ratio is.

I have an Ibanez SR505 that I really like the tuners on. Not sure what brand they are, though. I know the SR5005's have Gotoh's on them, but not sure about the 505's. However, I love the ratio and consistency of the ones on my 505.

My Lakkie has 1/2" holes, that I do not want to enlarge.

I gig 3-5 nights a week, so weight and more importantly, durability is a factor.

Any suggestions?

The stock tuners on the 55-02 are 1/2" Hipshot Licensed imports...same line Roger Sadowsky uses on the Metro series. They're very good tuners, tension-adjustable, but cannot be switched from left-hand to right-hand. The Gotoh GB7 type are 3/8" IIRC. What's your definition of "touchy"? The 55-02's plastic nut and string retainer bar are more than likely the culprits if tuning is inconsistent (slip 'n grab).

Riis

[RDT]

Originally Posted by Zooberwerx

The stock tuners on the 55-02 are 1/2" Hipshot Licensed imports...same line Roger Sadowsky uses on the Metro series. They're very good tuners, tension-adjustable, but cannot be switched from left-hand to right-hand. The Gotoh GB7 type are 3/8" IIRC. What's your definition of "touchy"? The 55-02's plastic nut and string retainer bar are more than likely the culprits if tuning is inconsistent (slip 'n grab).

Riis

By 'touchy' in mean, just a 1/16th or 1/8 of a turn and I've tuned well above where I want to be. It's NOT an inconsistency problem, as it stays in tune very well once in tune. But getting it there is the problem...the tuners are just...well touchy. BTW: I always tune UP, also.

[Zooberwerx]

Originally Posted by RDT

By 'touchy' in mean, just a 1/16th or 1/8 of a turn and I've tuned well above where I want to be. It's NOT an inconsistency problem, as it stays in tune very well once in tune. But getting it there is the problem...the tuners are just...well touchy. BTW: I always tune UP, also.

Doesn't sound like the tuner, unless the tuner is truly broken / malfunctioning. The travel path of the string on the 55-02 leaves a lot to be desired IMO and presents 2 troublesome contact points which are most likely the cause. I know the scenario: you're flat and start to tune up....flat, flat, flat, still flat, still flat *SPROING* way sharp! Here's pic of a typical 55-02 headstock:



#1) Nut - an improperly cut nut slot will bind the string. You may want to consider zapping each slot with a nut file, emery cloth, whatever and then "marking" each slot with a graphite pencil for lubrication. If uncomfortable with this type of procedure, take it to a tech. FTR: Skylines use a cheap plastic nut. Consider swapping it out for a bone or tusq replacement.

#2) String tree / retainer bar - this has got to be the worst design ever. Peavey Millenniums use the same configuration. I'd much prefer to see a headstock angled @ ~18 deg. so no retaining hardware is required. The string pulls against the underside of the bar which shouldn't be a problem provided both the string and bar surfaces are smooth....which is not always the case. Take a look at the pic: the G and D appear to be okay but look closely at the silk wraps and taper transitions on the A, E, and B strings with reference to the retainer bar. Also, if the string retainer bar is misadjusted or overtightened, the string(s) may actually come in contact with the headstock immediately after passing through the nut.

Hope that helps.

Riis