What is this tuning part called?

[iiipopes]

Thanks for posting pix of the entire set. Please forgive my directness, but I would consider either returning the bass or invest in a new set of reputable tuners. The design flaw of narrowing the worm shaft at that point will mean they will all break eventually from constantly taking all the torque load from tuning on the narrow part, instead of the load being distributed the entire length of a worm that has a consistent diameter, like a Fender standard, a old-fashioned Schaller type elephant ear tuner, or a Hipshot of whatever model, from vintage repro to Ultralite.

 

[William Burnette]

Thanks for posting pix of the entire set. Please forgive my directness, but I would consider either returning the bass or invest in a new set of reputable tuners. The design flaw of narrowing the worm shaft at that point will mean they will all break eventually from constantly taking all the torque load from tuning on the narrow part, instead of the load being distributed the entire length of a worm that has a consistent diameter, like a Fender standard, a old-fashioned Schaller type elephant ear tuner, or a Hipshot of whatever model, from vintage repro to Ultralite.

No problem for the pics.
When you speak of narrowing the shaft, are you referring to the two end-grooves mine have? However, surely it's not as big a deal as to return my bass? I intend to replace this breakage for the time being, and might as well ride these other tuners out to the end. I am a 16 year old kid with not a lot of money at the moment haha.

 

[iiipopes]

No problem for the pics.
When you speak of narrowing the shaft, are you referring to the two end-grooves mine have? However, surely it's not as big a deal as to return my bass? I intend to replace this breakage for the time being, and might as well ride these other tuners out to the end. I am a 16 year old kid with not a lot of money at the moment haha.

I'm talking about where it broke. Save your money, because eventually they will all break at that same spot, and you will need all new tuners. Yes, with not a lot of cash, a set of Hipshots may not be in the picture right now. But after you get your replacement for the one that broke so you can keep playing, if you intend on keeping the bass, I would recommend saving the $$ for a new set of tuners.

In the meantime, I would take one of your parents to the store you bought it, show them what happened, and insist on a warranty repair because this is definitely a defective tuner.

 

[rojo412]

I agree, I think if this is a new bass, this is a warranty issue and it should be covered by the seller.
There is something I noticed that should be addressed, because it's worth mentioning:
As with the US models, these Musicmen use shorter shafts than what is considered standard (like the ones I have, most basic replacements, etc). No matter what basic set you find, they will likely be a longer shaft.

Now, if you're still interested in a stopgap solution by getting some cheap tuner(s) to fix the bass for now, I'll sell you the whole set I have here for $12 shipped (if you are in the US, I don't see your location listed). In essence, it's $6 for four tuners and $6 to ship them.
If you can't get the warranty, let me know. Click my name, hit "Start a conversation", and we can discuss it there.

 

[William Burnette]

So you guys are telling me my bass in whole will deteriorate if I do not replace the whole set eventually?

As far as return goes, I don't even think I have documentation of the purchase anymore. I'll see what I can do,but thanks for your help guys. I am charmed by the community here. Rojo, I will message you.

 

[Pilgrim]

It's not a huge expense, and it doesn't sound like the bass was beaten about - so that's evidence that the original tuners aren't very robust. I'd just replace all the tuners and be reassured that you're good. Make sure that diameter of the tuner shaft that goes through the headstock on the replacements is the same as the originals. I don't know the brand and model of the bass, but I'm surprised that one broke.

 

[Hopkins]

No problem for the pics.
When you speak of narrowing the shaft, are you referring to the two end-grooves mine have? However, surely it's not as big a deal as to return my bass? I intend to replace this breakage for the time being, and might as well ride these other tuners out to the end. I am a 16 year old kid with not a lot of money at the moment haha.

You don't need alot of cash to replace that tuner. These should fit
http://www.amazon.com/Vintage-Tuner...F8&qid=1422969047&sr=8-2&keywords=bass+tuners

Also, don't worry about the rest of them breaking on you. Those tuners aren't that fragile, yours either suffered an impact or it had a weak spot when it was cast. I am pretty sure the rest of them are fine, its not a design flaw, cheap tuners work, the difference between cheap and expensive is how smooth they turn, gear ratio, and finish. Cheapos will hold tune, though they may not feel so smooth when you tune them. A worm gear does not slip.

 

[William Burnette]

You don't need alot of cash to replace that tuner. These should fit
http://www.amazon.com/Vintage-Tuner...F8&qid=1422969047&sr=8-2&keywords=bass+tuners

Also, don't worry about the rest of them breaking on you. Those tuners aren't that fragile, yours either suffered an impact or it had a weak spot when it was cast. I am pretty sure the rest of them are fine, its not a design flaw, cheap tuners work, the difference between cheap and expensive is how smooth they turn, gear ratio, and finish. Cheapos will hold tune, though they may not feel so smooth when you tune them. A worm gear does not slip.

How do I find out the measurements?

 

[Hopkins]

How do I find out the measurements?

That's the problem with Amazon, but I am pretty sure its the exact same tuner, just from looking at the gear compared to the mounting holes.