How to install Gotoh Locking Klusons on an LP Standard Faded

[steved0x]

I just got some Gotoh Locking Kluson tuners for my LP. I was reading the instructions and it talks about needing a punch to get the old bushings out before installing the new ones. But I thought I also heard they were a drop in replacement and that I didn't have to pop out the bushings. Before I head to the hardware store to find a punch or some way to get the old bushing out I thought I would ask here:

Do I need to take the old bushings out?
What's the best way to do it?

Thanks!

Steve

[RvChevron]

Did you try to mount it? Unless the original bushings are too small, the Gotoh should fit.

[Bob V]

You don't need to go buy a big drift pin punch (although a set of those does come in handy if you're a tool hound). If you have a good drill index (that goes beyond 1/4"), you should have a drill bit large enough to punch the bushings yet small enough to fit in the hole. Use the blunt end of the drill bit as a punch.

But RvChevron's right, first try the new tuners in the old bushings - if you have press-fit bushings then the inside diameter of the bushing should be close enough to the new ones that you won't have a problem. If your LP is a production model (not custom shop) and new enough, then it might have bolt bushings that have to be unscrewed from the front, and they'd leave a big hole that you need to use "conversion bushings" in order to use the Kluson style tuners. Most bolt bushings need a 10mm open end wrench.

[steved0x]

If your LP is a production model (not custom shop) and new enough, then it might have bolt bushings that have to be unscrewed from the front, and they'd leave a big hole that you need to use "conversion bushings" in order to use the Kluson style tuners. Most bolt bushings need a 10mm open end wrench.

It is a 2008 Les Paul Standard Faded. I didn't want to start the job until I was sure that I had the tools I need, but I guess I should take one off and see what happens :) I'll report back with what I find, thanks for the info!

Steve

[Eagle1]

Standards have had Gotoh vintage (small press in bushings) since 2002.
Should be a direct fit on one of those.

[shizzaq]

Any update on this? I have a 07 Standard Faded that I am thinking about putting locking tuners on and i would be interested to see how this works out.

[steved0x]

I haven't had a chance to install them yet. I am waiting on some GuitarForce pickups, and when they come in I am going to change the tuners and the pickups at the same time. I just put on new strings and I think I can keep them when I change tuners, but once I have the locking tuners on not sure if I can loosen the strings enough to get the bridge off to change the pickups.

How do you like your standard so far?

Steve