6th string inconsistent with B-pedal

[Tucker Jackson]

Hey, I'm stumped.

I have a new-ish all-pull guitar and am having trouble with the B-pedal giving an inconsistent answer on the 6th string's "A" note. Guitar has been working fine, but suddently developed a new issue a few days ago. I didn't adjust anything or change strings... the problem just cropped up for no obvious reason.

If you step on the A-pedal (or AB together) over and over, the A note is in tune one time, then maybe flat the next couple, then maybe back in tune the next few. Or so the Peterson tuner says. We're talking probably 8 cents, so when it's off, it's very audible when playing it against other strings.

My gut says that the lower finger is getting involved about half the time (when it obviously shouldn't) and that's what's causing this. That's usually the issue for this symptom. But I can not see or feel that lower finger move at all when stepping on the pedal.

Here is the list of things I've already tried:

* Changed the plain 6th string to an NYXL plain 6th.
* Wound the string on the tuning post so it would form the straightest possible line over the roller nut.
* Checked for overtuning and made sure there was some slack in the pull train. At neutral, all fingers are in line.
* Temporarily removed the other changes on the B-pedal (3rd string, and compensator for 7th string).
* Lubed the roller nut.
* Lubed the changer axle.
* Lubed the rivet on the 6th string scissors.
* Tightened the return string.
* Checked that the bellcrank is tight on the cross bar.
* Checked the pull rod from end to end to verify it is not rubbing against any other rod or crank.
* Checked that the pull rod is solidly in its slot in the bellcrank -- and doesn't sometimes pop out a little when activated.
* Checked that the pedal stop is solid.
* Note: there is no split-tuning set up on the guitar, so that's not the issue.

There are a finite number of variables in this equation and I think I've troubleshot them all -- but maybe not? Thoughts?

[Jerry Overstreet]

If there's no slop or inconsistency with the pedal train or changer finger movement, I'd try loosening up the pedal stop just a scosch for a little more travel then re-tune 3 and 6 A notes.

I'm assuming you have already checked for some obstruction such as a string ball stuck in the changer mech.

Also, make sure your pedal has good clearance from the floor and is not bottoming out.

[Tucker Jackson]

I like the way you think, Jerry.

Suggestions 2 and 3.... I forgot to put those on the list of "things already checked."

And suggestion #1, I do have a little slack in the train but I'm going to add some more. Thanks.

If anybody else has thoughts, please lay them on me.

[Bobby D. Jones]

You may have to go back through your list again.
When I had that problem. I found that sometimes a burr on the side of roller or burr in roller slot is the problem. Or a rusty/rough shaft in the nut roller is the problem.

Good Luck finding the problem and curing the problem.

[Dan Beller-McKenna]

Stabs in the dark, but . . .

Check whether anything is "flexing," i.e., continuing to move after the pedal has reached its stop. I recently had this issue with the vertical lever on an old Super Pro (sounds like your axe is much newer).

Also, if possible, take a look at the surface where the raise plate of the finger scissors comes to rest. If there is any irregularity there, it could cause inconsistent tuning issues. I doubt this would be the case on a newish guitar, but you might as well rule that out too.