Better Mando tuners.

[poopsidoo]

I got my 1959 Gibson A-5 Mando from a pawn shop about 10 years ago. The original tuners were all corroded, so I replaced them from, I think, Stew Mac. (Below is pic of replacements) They have worked fine, but lately the A string tuner seems like when I loosen the tuner the string stays where it is for a 1/2 turn. Not sure what the problem is, but am ready to look into better tuners. I would like to get better quality but not add any new holes. Any suggestions on what will work?

https://www.acousticguitarforum.com/...1&d=1647978615

[Fishermike]

Might get more responses over at the Mandolin Cafe:

https://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/

Definitely the place for all things mandolin!

[packmule]

Might be difficult to get a drop in set that won't require new holes being drilled, but if you're looking for better tuners I recommend Rubners - I've had them on two different mandolins and found them to be a huge improvement on Stew-Mac tuners.

[poopsidoo]

Originally Posted by packmule

Might be difficult to get a drop in set that won't require new holes being drilled, but if you're looking for better tuners I recommend Rubners - I've had them on two different mandolins and found them to be a huge improvement on Stew-Mac tuners.

Ok. Never heard of Rubners. Will look them up

[Mandobart]

Originally Posted by packmule

Might be difficult to get a drop in set that won't require new holes being drilled, but if you're looking for better tuners I recommend Rubners - I've had them on two different mandolins and found them to be a huge improvement on Stew-Mac tuners.

Since sometime about 100 years ago mandolin 4-on-a-plate tuning machine roller (post) spacing has been standardized. Note that roller and bushing diameter is NOT standardized - replacement machines may require you to ream out existing bushing holes (easy) or build up/coat the OD of the new bushings to fit oversize holes.

I've replaced tuning machines on many A and F style mandolin family instruments. The main thing is to be sure your replacement machine worm gear matches the orientation of the current machines (worm over or worm under).

I put a set of Rubner machines on my F5 back when they were easy to get. Their stock and options have become much more limited since. They're fine but realistically not any better than the Stew-Mac, Grover or Schaller machines I've used.

[Wade Hampton]

The mandolin tuners I’ve had the best luck with are the Gotohs.


whm

[Br1ck]

A new professionally cut nut. Tuners are rarely ever the problem. My hundred year old Gibson A 1 tuners have a ton of slop, but under tension, the hold pitch.

You must always tune up, and I always stretch the string with my pick before doing so. The string can hang up on the bridge. Graphite is your friend.

[EZYPIKINS]

Originally Posted by Br1ck

A new professionally cut nut. Tuners are rarely ever the problem. My hundred year old Gibson A 1 tuners have a ton of slop, but under tension, the hold pitch.

You must always tune up, and I always stretch the string with my pick before doing so. The string can hang up on the bridge. Graphite is your friend.

Also you could try some Nut Sauce in the nut slots

[Br1ck]

Well cut nuts need nothing more than a little graphite if that. Tuners generally function fine. They will never be smooth like Grover rotomatics.

Tuners are almost never the problem.