"Ask Bud!"

Question:

Is there an easy way to add split tuning adjustments (splits) to a steel that does not have them?

Answer:

Adding the splits to your steel can be done easily. It is a matter of adding another pull rod (from most any welding shop), rod locking device (brass rod holder, etc.) and a tuning nut (from a George L's dealer).

Attach the rod to the raise hole on the 6th string at the changer end. Then attach the rod to the pull bar (bell crank) in the position closest to the body.

A split allows you to have a combination tuning on strings which are both raised and lowered. For example, G# lower to F# with a knee lever can be split to G with the B pedal.

The tuning procedure for guitars equipped with tunable-splits is as follows:

1. Tune open tuning keys with the keys as usual.
2. Tune raises with the nylon nuts as usual.
3. When both the raise and lower function are engaged at the same time, the resultant note is tuned with the nylon nut that lowers the string. Turn clockwise to lower the note.
4. Finally, tune the lowered note alone with the respective Black raise nylon nut.

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