Changing strings on a slotted headstock

[cigarfan]

I am new to a slotted headstock. It looks like changing strings may have an art to it. I am changing strings on a 6-string acoustic (metal string).

I definitely don't want the strings chewing into the wood so I want to make sure the wrap is coming off the post at the right place depending on which string and its relationship to the nut. Plus I don't want a long tail hanging out above or below the slot.

Anyone know where I can find some tips and tricks?

This is the best I could find: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4SLZhgVX4U

[DennisG]

I've now changed strings on my slotted headstock twice, and the second time was a significant improvement over the first.  Here are some things that helped me immensely the second time.

1.  Get yourself one of those Planet Waves Headstands (or similar product) so that you can work on restringing the headstock while it's raised in the air.  I generally lay the guitar on a towel, prop up the neck with the Headstand, and hang the headstock over the edge of a counter so that I can work on it from underneath.

2.  Get yourself one of those Ernie Ball motorized string winders.  It's a godsend.

3.  Thread the string through the tuner hole, allow the proper amount of slack for that particular string, then clip off the string about a quarter-inch from the tuner capstan (this will keep the string from chewing up the wood as you wind).  Bend the excess quarter-inch of string back toward the bridge so that it can't pull through the capstan as you begin to wind it.  Then use the motorized winder to bring it close to tension.  Clip off the excess quarter-inch of string as closely as you prefer.

4.  Rinse.  Repeat on other strings.

[cigarfan]

Thanks Dennis. Sounds like solid advice.

Just one additional question. Have you found it important to wrap the string to one side or the other of center capstan? The guy from National (in the YouTube link) says it is depending on the string angle to the nut.

[DennisG]

I haven't (yet) found it important.  I just go with whichever side of the hole the string starts winding, and it doesn't seem to make a difference.

[jpmist]

I am new to a slotted headstock.
Anyone know where I can find some tips and tricks?

This is the best I could find: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4SLZhgVX4U

My best tip is to use a broken off toothpick to secure the unwound strings in the post hole as you initially tighten. That way you don't need to worry about the string slipping out before the wrap tightens.

The wound strings I bend 90 degrees and then make sure the string crosses over where the string enters the post to hold it down and keep it from slipping.

And yeah, you have to try to wind away from the side of the slot the string is closest to so it won't rub. But that won't work if your string post is recessed in the middle.

[Gutch]

I've changed them a few times on my 12 fret GC.  Followed the Taylor method and it has worked like a charm every time.

Here's a link to the PDF so you can print it out and follow along until it becomes second nature...

http://www.taylorguitars.com/sites/default/files/Steel_Restring.pdf

Have fun!!!

[cigarfan]

Thanks for all of the suggestions. That Taylor "show me" PDF looks excellent.

Just what I needed! 

[Tammany Tiger]

I've changed them a few times on my 12 fret GC.  Followed the Taylor method and it has worked like a charm every time.

Here's a link to the PDF so you can print it out and follow along until it becomes second nature...

http://www.taylorguitars.com/sites/default/files/Steel_Restring.pdf

Have fun!!!

Thanks, Gutch. I had been looking without success for that PDF file on the Taylor website.