Geometric-shaped string tuners on Mosrites

[Mr. Bill]

Keep in mind that the mineral oil bath is only a cleaning agent, it is not a lubricant. Seperate the back cover to expose the gears, let it soak for about 24hrs to soften the grime and dried grease, then use a stiff brush to brush away loose particles. You can then relube the gears with a very small dab Vasaline and reassemble.

I think that Dubtrub has hit it on the head here.

The problem is that the original lubricant has hardened and is now acting like a glue gel. I've seen this happen a lot, not only on tuners, but with pots as well. The mineral oil or any good penetrating oil will help to soften the original grease, but as it dries out again the stiffness will return.

The best thing would be to completely remove the original stuff and re-grease them with something like automotive axle grease.

[B52]

OK Danny and all, I think I am reday to give the tuners a proper cleaning in mineral spirits. Your direction and info are most helpful. This will be the first time they were ever taken off the guitar.

I bought this 1971 VI in 1981 (for $250 and it was in excellent condition), to the laughs of all my friends that were only playing new hot Charvels & Jacksons (who is laughing now?), and I have never removed the tuners through all these years. It seems now is the time. What the heck?!

I was just looking at them; the 2 screws affixing the each tuner to the headstock are amazingly small. I will go slow. The geometric design really is something else (pyramids, diamonds, & cubes in steel).

Thanks,
B52