Well, for a couple of years now I play one of Tom Cussen's banjos and still love it. But, it seems to be falling apart...a little :S.
It seems that, while I play 3 of the four screws in the tailpiece unscrew themselves (all but the high E string one).
Anyone out there have the same problem? And maybe a solution?
One problem could be that there are no tension on them whatsoever when you're playing. Then they will naturally unscrew form the vibrations. Try assuring that the levers of your tailpiece is pointing slightly downwards (and thus have the screws tightened a few turns) so that the string tension will keep them in place.
You might want to check what sort of screws were used. Self-tapping screws will eventually work loose in conditions of vibration. Perhaps you need to place a drop of glue on the threads before you screw them tight again.
You don't mention what tailpiece you have....but I know for example that the adjusting screws for Kers(c)hner and Oettinger style tailpieces do tend to come loose.
Rick at Richelieu Banjos (in Oregon, WI, USA) gave me this tip. First, adjust the screws to your preferred setting. Then, using a toothpick let a single drop of clear nail polish run on to the threads (careful not to let any fall on other parts of the banjo, because the nail polish can mar finishes). This will harden to fix the threads.
If you need to readjust the screws at a later time, it should not be difficult to break the seal. But if you do encounter a problem with that, I would suggest removing the tailpiece from the banjo (again to avoid solvent damage to other parts) and a little acetone should dissolve the nail polish.
Indeed, I was told by Tom once to glue the screws to the tailpiece (but, since the only glue I own tend not to let go anymore (ever!), I never went that far). I did a couple of gigs now with the 3 screws unscrewed.
I think I'll try the nailpolish tip, bet my gf has something somewhere...I'll pester her.
Screws loose (banjo question)
Screws loose (banjo question)
Hi all,
Well, for a couple of years now I play one of Tom Cussen's banjos and still love it. But, it seems to be falling apart...a little :S.
It seems that, while I play 3 of the four screws in the tailpiece unscrew themselves (all but the high E string one).
Anyone out there have the same problem? And maybe a solution?
Thanks for your help, all the best,
Sjoerd
# Posted on May 12th 2008 by Dark Raven
Re: Screws loose (banjo question)
One problem could be that there are no tension on them whatsoever when you're playing. Then they will naturally unscrew form the vibrations. Try assuring that the levers of your tailpiece is pointing slightly downwards (and thus have the screws tightened a few turns) so that the string tension will keep them in place.
# Posted on May 12th 2008 by Larshansen
Re: Screws loose (banjo question)
You might want to check what sort of screws were used. Self-tapping screws will eventually work loose in conditions of vibration. Perhaps you need to place a drop of glue on the threads before you screw them tight again.
# Posted on May 12th 2008 by Guernsey Pete
Re: Screws loose (banjo question)
Hi Dark Raven,
You don't mention what tailpiece you have....but I know for example that the adjusting screws for Kers(c)hner and Oettinger style tailpieces do tend to come loose.
Rick at Richelieu Banjos (in Oregon, WI, USA) gave me this tip. First, adjust the screws to your preferred setting. Then, using a toothpick let a single drop of clear nail polish run on to the threads (careful not to let any fall on other parts of the banjo, because the nail polish can mar finishes). This will harden to fix the threads.
If you need to readjust the screws at a later time, it should not be difficult to break the seal. But if you do encounter a problem with that, I would suggest removing the tailpiece from the banjo (again to avoid solvent damage to other parts) and a little acetone should dissolve the nail polish.
Paul
# Posted on May 12th 2008 by Paul Groff
Re: Screws loose (banjo question)
Thanks everyone.
Indeed, I was told by Tom once to glue the screws to the tailpiece (but, since the only glue I own tend not to let go anymore (ever!), I never went that far). I did a couple of gigs now with the 3 screws unscrewed.
I think I'll try the nailpolish tip, bet my gf has something somewhere...I'll pester her.
Thanks again,
Sjoerd
# Posted on May 12th 2008 by Dark Raven
Re: Screws loose (banjo question)
Specially designed for this problem, and not permanent. http://www.tooled-up.com/Product.asp?PID=134941
# Posted on May 13th 2008 by Backer