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Re-use tuner bushings?

Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2025 7:17 pm
by Stray Feathers
I've used Grover tuners on about eight ukuleles, drilling the post holes, and reaming them out with the appropriate Stew Mac bushing reamer. On the last two, when I pressed in the Grover bushings with my drill press, there was a lot of lacquer chipping and cracking. So two questions: 1) To avoid this in the futre, should I use the reamer after the finish is on, or before, and just do a thorough manual reaming of the finish before pressing the bushings? And 2) If I remove the tuners and bushings to make repairs, can I press the original bushings back in when it's fixed? Thanks--Bruce W.

Re: Re-use tuner bushings?

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2025 5:30 am
by tippie53
I pre drill before finish and use a chamfer bit after finish to break the corner of finish to avoid chipping

Re: Re-use tuner bushings?

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2025 8:21 pm
by MaineGeezer
The only reason I can think of not to re-use the bushings is if they are worn so much the shafts are no longer supported properly.

Re: Re-use tuner bushings?

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2025 8:35 pm
by TEETERFAN
I have a lot of experience with Fender bushings on electrics. I have cracked necks forcing in bushings that are too tight, so opening up the hole a little is best. I kinda shoot for a fit that needs a light tap or two to seat. On worn holes I drizzle cyanoacrylate glue on the bushing and let that dry completely, building the thickness until it is snug again.
To avoid chipping on finished necks I drill the holes in stages and drill the first 1/16”-1/8” with my drill reversed (standard bit).