Expert: Patrick - 1/12/2007

Question
Thanks for the info.
Second part of the question - I am handy with tools. Can I install new ones myself, and how do I know which kind to get?
Thanks,
Dave
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
I have a 25-year old Alvarez 12-string. It is in good shape except it needs a couple of tuning heads. Where is the best place to puchase these? I see a lot of them online, but they wouldn't match the originals. Or will I have to replace all 12 of them?
Thanks,
Dave
-----Answer-----
Hi Dave,

Well, it really depends on what you are looking to get out of the Alvarez. Are you looking to put it back to original condition or are you happy just getting it in playing condition?

If it is the latter, I would buy a new set of tuners and have the guitar set-up by someone who knows what they are doing. New tuners would cost you around 50-100 dollars.

Check out musiciansfriend.com or just do a google search and type in guitar machine heads. See what you find. There are thousands of dealers out there.

If you are looking to put this guitar back in it's original state, that is going to be a little more work, but rewarding in the long run.

If the guitar is in very good condition, then I would probably look at trying to fine original hardware.

Good Luck

Patrick

Answer
Dave,

I would take the guitar to a professional.

There, they can match up the machine heads and you will have the proper fit. Grovers are your best bet.

Remember that 8 out of 10 times when you remove the small wood screws that hold the tuners on the guitar, the holes will need to be filled so that you will have a proper fit for the new screws. I use toothpicks and Elmer's wood or carpenters glue.
Take the toothpick and dip it in the glue. Insert the toothpick in the exsisting hole glue side first, tap it in  and leave it till it drys. I would leave it for 24 hours. Then break or carefully cut the toothpick off. You now have a nice fresh soild area to insert your new screws.

Again, I would take it to a pro. But if you have the knowledge of fine wood working, you could probably do this task.

Good Luck

Patrick