ZB Custom again

Dave Van Allen · Post by **Dave Van Allen** » 1 Jul 2002 6:14 am

I got to spend some time tinkering with my new/old ZB this weekend.

I actually sussed out some of the mechanical intricasies and got the E9th resonably playable: adjusting pedal rod lengths; got my C pedal pulling to the correct pitches; figuring out the extra tuning stop for my F lever; got my semi annual string shipment from b0b and strung it up with fresh strings, both necks; even though the C6th pedals are virtually useless right now I can still comp open chords and play non pedal style on it.

It has responded to the TLC and sounds even better with fresh strings....

I think I'm in love again...

Dave Van Allen · Post by **Dave Van Allen** » 1 Jul 2002 11:39 am

I have noticed that if I use my E raise to F lever then let it off it will not return to pitch... yet if after this happens I use my E lowers lever and let it off I get back to my true open E, very much in tune...

I'm thinking some kind of return spring tension is the issue....?

richard burton · Post by **richard burton** » 1 Jul 2002 11:54 am

Dave,
Does it return sharp, and does the same thing happen when you use the 'C' pedal?

Dave Van Allen · Post by **Dave Van Allen** » 2 Jul 2002 6:00 pm

sorry I wasn't clear Richard- it's the low E that returns sharp... C pedal returns fine on upper E as does the F lever.

Lack of proper lubrication over a long perod of time also seems to be among this poor gal's maladies...

but dang it sounds good!!

Donny Hinson · Post by **Donny Hinson** » 3 Jul 2002 7:39 am

Dave, slack the string off a little and turn the nut roller a half-turn...then retune and see if the problem's any better. A nut roller that's not moving freely will cause that problem. Sometimes, lubrication will correct it, other times, the shaft and roller will have to be removed, polished, and then re-lubed.