If I change my original tuners to Kluson Tone Pros...

[bwires]

I have a 2004 Gibson Les Paul Standard and have been considering a change from the original tuning machines to Kluson Tone Pros? Why? Well, they have a higher gear ratio, are made very well and think they will help with overall tuning functionality of the guitar.

My hesitation comes because, in order to do this, I would have to enlarge the post-holes to enable the new bushings to fit properly. So, the question is, will this compromise the "value" of my guitar? What if i want to eventually change back to originals? Seems like I couldn't since the bushings would now be too small for the holes in the headstock.

Just looking for advice from those that have done this, considered doing it or did not do it due to the issues above (or some othe reason). Am I worried about nothing?

Thanks for your input...

 

[Eric Pykala]

The TP-Klusons come either with bolt bushings that need a 10mm hole, or a vintage-style set to use in press-in bushings. If your Lester has press-ins currently just buy the vintage replacement TP Klusons and you're done. The screwholes are even the same, and yes, it's a big improvement over the Gibson *****.

 

[bwires]

The TP-Klusons come either with bolt bushings that need a 10mm hole, or a vintage-style set to use in press-in bushings. If your Lester has press-ins currently just buy the vintage replacement TP Klusons and you're done. The screwholes are even the same, and yes, it's a big improvement over the Gibson *****.

Yes - my bushings are press-in and I bought these:

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Kluson-...chines-3-Per-Side-300221-i1374074.gc?esid=k33

Did I get the right/wrong ones?

 

[rockonomics]

You can also get oversize bushings from GFS, Stewmac and others. If you're within the 30 day window and your new ones ain't the ones you want/need, GC has a good return policy

 

[Eric Pykala]

Correct choice. To use them properly they recommend you replace the Gibson bushings with their bushings (check me on this), which I believe to be a slightly tighter tolerance. This is something you might want to take to a qualified tech so you don't mess the finish on the headstock.
Why are these tuners not standard on more guitars?

 

[edwinhong]

Tone might change little bit after you change the tuner.