[dcb2069]

Hi all,

I have an Epi LP special 2 that I've been playing for a couple of months now. The problem is that it likes to fall out of tune and whatnot, so I'm starting to think it's the tuning pegs. Problem is, I have no idea what size my pegs are and what "kind" of pegs I'm looking for. Someone recommended Grovers to me the other day. Anyhow, I'd get them but I don't want to get a wrong size and have to end up drilling holes and whatnot. Is there a standard size that my LP maybe fitting under?

And when I do find out, the pegs themselves aren't that hard to install are they?

Thanks!

[Major Tom]

No, they are not that hard to install - the significant measurement is the diameter of the hole in the headstock that they mount thru, there are a couple or 3 sizes. If yours has the smaller diameter holes, you would need to get a reamer to enlarge them - don't just try to drill them out with a bigger drill bit, it will probably chip the finish and/or split the wood. The little mounting screw positions are different from one brand/model to another - they will not line up.

Now, IMO, you probably do not need to change them. I know a lot of players change them out when they have tuning issues with a guitar, but in my experience even the cheapie tuners that come on the low end imports work well. I have never seen any tuners that actually slip backwards, but... My guess is that is something else, either mechanical in the guiutar or in your stringing and or tuning technique.

Mechanical - make sure the strings are not binding in the nut, and verify that your bridge & saddles (and tailpiece) are not moving around.

Probably the biggest culprit in tuning issues is the player's technique in stringing and tuning:

You must "stretch" tune the strings when you install 'em - that is necessary to eliminate the slack of the string wraps on the post, and also the ball end. Bring the string up to pitch, pull upward on the string around the 12th fret area or so which will cause the string to go flat. Repeat this process until the string does not go flat when you pull. I pull upward with about 6 -10 lbs. of pressure (I know how much it is 'cause I pull upward to where the guitar is lifted up, or close to it with heavier ones and I know how much they weigh...) The high E and the D string are the weakest, I don't pull as hard on them - like 6 lbs.

When you tune a string, always bring it UP to pitch, not down.

Oh yeah - that's a bolt on neck, right? I have seen a lot of bolt-on guitars belonging to other people with loose neck screws! Tighten them up if they are loose.

[gtrdave]

I echo what Major Tom said. Don't go changing the machines yet as they may not be the cause of the problem.

I wish I was still out in L.A. as I'd offer to take a look at your axe for you but, alas, 3000 miles are now between me and my former Burbank home.

Still, you have a few good music stores and repair folks out there if you're willing to spend a buck or two to get your guitar checked.
The guy I used for all my work is named Norik Renson (818-761-4766). He's located near the Studio City/Valley Village area of the SFV and he and his co-worker, Brett, do some amazing work for not much money.
Be warned; he's VERY in-demand and quite busy (if nothing's changed from a year ago) so it might take him a day or three to check the guitar out but, imho, it's worth it to have a professional opinion.

Carruther's Guitar in Venice (310-392-3919) is another decent place. I haven't been there in years but they always did me right.

And then there's The Amp Shop/Splash Sound (818-386-5500) in North Hollywood on Ventura and Woodman. Great little store and I think the tech's name is Tina. She used to be at Guitar Guitar on Ventura before they burned down. I'd recommend her as well.

I hope this is helpful to you.

[Hopeful]

The above info is right on. You should also try putting graphite in your nut slots so your strings can move freely.