A pedal won't raise a string

Parr Bryan · Post by **Parr Bryan** » 10 Jun 2024 11:03 am

Hello all,
Well, once again I get to the gig and something won't work. This time it's the raise on the 10th string with the A pedal. At first it would only raise the string one fret instead of a whole tone/2 frets. Then it stopped raising the 10th string completely but the A pedal still raised the 5th string correctly. Using the tuning wrench did nothing.
The steel is a Carter 10 string with 3 and 5.
Thanks for your help.

Jerry Overstreet · Post by **Jerry Overstreet** » 10 Jun 2024 11:43 am

Several possibilities but you can probably diagnose if you observe while operating the mechanics with the guitar upside down.

First thought is either a stripped out nylon tuner or a cracked and failing pull bar at the cross shaft.

Could be a pull rod out of the pull bar, but I think that would be pretty obvious.

Just flip it over on the bed or other soft spot and observe the 10th string mechanics action while operating the pedal.\\

Good luck.

Ron Pruter · Post by **Ron Pruter** » 10 Jun 2024 11:49 am

What Jerry said or check out Overturning by Jon Light at the beginning of mechanical page.

Bobby D. Jones · Post by **Bobby D. Jones** » 10 Jun 2024 9:24 pm

If its a Carter with Brass Dog Bone connectors on the bell crank/pull bar, The Dog Bone may have broke on the 10th string. Or moved in its slots.

If the nylon tuner is working OK.
Need to turn it over and look underneath for the problem.

Parr Bryan · Post by **Parr Bryan** » 12 Jun 2024 10:16 am

Got her fixed. It was the bushing that holds the rod in place on the action which rotates to change pitch of the string. I had, thanks Lord another!

Parr Bryan · Post by **Parr Bryan** » 12 Jun 2024 10:16 am

Thanks again everyone !!

Jerry Overstreet · Post by **Jerry Overstreet** » 12 Jun 2024 2:34 pm

Glad you got it sorted out. So, when you say bushing, do you mean the spacer behind the nylon tuning nut on the right end of the guitar or the connection at the other end? Curiouso

Bobby D. Jones · Post by **Bobby D. Jones** » 15 Jun 2024 8:58 pm

Was it sleeve on the pull rod that collapsed? Or was it the rear plastic bushing on the A pedal cross rod, Failed and let the back end of the cross shaft move toward the changer, Shortening the pull, Causing the problem?

Ron Pruter · Post by **Ron Pruter** » 16 Jun 2024 2:07 pm

Parr, inquiring minds want to know. Please show,via a picture, or tell us exactly what you mean? RP