Tuning machines grinding

[aznsk1d]

The tuning machines on my Fender Jazz Standard have started to do a "grinding" thing. Has anyone know what might remedy it?

when I turn the tuning key without a string attached, it turns relatively smoothly, but once a string is on, and as tension increases it begins to "grind". almost like fingernails on a chalkboard.

Suggestions/solutions please?

Thank you.

[Craig_S]

It sounds like the tuners might have worn out. Have you tried tightening the screws that hold the (post) gears in place? They may have loosened. If that doesn't work, I would purchase a new set of tuners.

[T-Bird]

Hi.

Something might have worked it's way between the wheel and the spring or between the shaft/post and the base-plate. Or overtightening the screw and bad material choices have "friction welded" the before mentioned parts together.

The solution is simple. Take off the string, remove the wheel screw, lift off the wheel, take out the shaft/post and the spring and inspect. If there's nics or burrs, sand them flat with wet-sanding paper and reinstall with a dry lubricant of some sort. I've used "pure" teflon and graphite with success.

Regards
Sam

[Turnaround]

How old is the bass? The tuning machines on the "Standard" are of a moderate quality and often start to grind a bit as the plating wears off. Not a big deal. You can probably alleviate it a bit by lubricating the tuners. Use a light grease like lithium grease and apply it sparingly to the tuner. Best to diassemble the tuner to do this. A swipe of grease on the underside of the gear where it contacts the mounting plate and a bit on the worm gear is good.

Not so easy to lubricate the shaft of the worm gear where it goes through the retainers - a wee bit of light oil may help there. But just a wee bit. The last thing you want to do is get oil on the wood of the headstock.

Toronto, eh?