Fitting Ferrules Into Tuning Machine Holes (?)

[ComeHomeShane]

Greetings, I'm working on my first parts build... sorry if I don't use all the correct lingo or if I ask a total newb question...

Measurement Photos Below!

The tuning peg ferrules seem to be about a millimeter too large for the drilled holes on the head stock. I tried gently hammering one in, but got to the point where it felt like I had to hammer too hard (don't want to crack the neck). See photos below...

Is there some type of wax or sanding technique I can use to slightly open the peg holes?

Thanks!
-Shane

 

[Matt Liebenau]

You could try a sanding drum on a Dremel but that can remove a lot of material unexpectedly. Sandpaper on something round and firm, a piece of PVC pipe for example, or a round file can take the wood off quickly but controllably. Be patient and check regularly to make sure you’re not making the holes oval.

 

[Gilmourisgod]

Pictures too blurry to read, what’s the difference in diameter? There are a couple sizes of ferrules, and some oddball ones too. One trick I’ve used is to get a circle template and draw a pencil line circle barely bigger than the hole, right around the hole, and then slowly file or sand to that line. It’s easier to see tiny differences, or if you are enlarging it out of round. Go slow, they should fit with firm hand pressure or light tap with something like a plastic hammer.

 

[ComeHomeShane]

Thanks for the advice!

I ended up getting a fine 120 grit round sand drum. Went slow, didn't put a lot of pressure. Only took off enough to be able to lightly hammer them in.
It worked OK. I should have drawn circles, but I got the job done.

I realized that what I really need in my shop is a rotating vice.

 

[Matt Liebenau]

Thanks for the advice!

I ended up getting a fine 120 grit round sand drum. Went slow, didn't put a lot of pressure. Only took off enough to be able to lightly hammer them in.
It worked OK. I should have drawn circles, but I got the job done.

I realized that what I really need in my shop is a rotating vice.

There was a guy locally who built guitars and was moving a few years ago. Among other things I bought from him, at a bargain price, was one of these. I probably would never have bought one on my own but it’s great. I use it all the time. Grizzly has the same thing in green as a pattern maker’s vice for about 1/2 the price and there’s undoubtedly other sources as well.

Guitar Repair Vise - StewMac

 

[ctmullins]

I should rotate my vices. I’ve been hitting the chocolate hard for a while now, but I haven’t had a cigarette in years….

 

[BrassedOn]

Also a luthier could start the widening with a with a cello or bass peg box hole reamer, then finish as needed with correct bit in drill press. The reamer can help prevent chip-out that’s a risk with a drill bit. You don’t need to drill through all the way, just enough for the ferrule.

BTW just hammering in ferrule, even if “successful”, puts stress on the wood that might crack later from just expansion contraction due to change in humidity or a well placed knock.

 

[Gilmourisgod]

I should rotate my vices. I’ve been hitting the chocolate hard for a while now, but I haven’t had a cigarette in years….

All the Cool Kids are vaping now, ya gotta get up to date on your Nicotine Delivery Systems. My wife works in a toy store and and caught a couple 10-11 year olds vaping some candy-flavored Vice in the back aisle. The End is Nigh.

 

[deff]

search spiral hole reamer next time. hand tool for expanding holes.

 

[Cave Puppy]

Once the tuner holes are properly reamed you can use a clamp with rubber pads to press the ferrules into place.

 

[ThinCrappyTone2]

“Fitting Ferrules” sounds like a good band name

I’ll see myself out…

 

[Bruce Johnson]

For anyone else facing this problem, here's an older thread where we discuss and argue about all the many ways and tools for enlarging tuner holes:

Up-sizing tuning peg hole

 

[ComeHomeShane]

For anyone else facing this problem, here's an older thread where we discuss and argue about all the many ways and tools for enlarging tuner holes:

Up-sizing tuning peg hole

thanks! I had looked around a bunch before posting, but couldn't find anything informative.