What's this part?

Names and descriptions of common parts you'll find on a pedal steel

Keyhead

Pedal steel guitars keyheads and keyless (gearless) tuning mechanisms are used to attach strings and bring them up to open- tuning pitch. Almost all manufacturers offer keyheads (keyed guitars). Some manufacturers also offer keyless tuning mechanisms. You can learn about the advantages and disadvantages of each type by talking with the various manufacturers and players. We recommend that you do some homework in this area.

Here are photos of each type:

Conventional Keyhead
Keyhead
Keyless Keyhead
Keyless Keyhead