Guide to tuning an Emmons Push/Pull

[Andy DePaule]

I did not read every post on this thread, but right from the start, I say you MUST first tune with the pedals down at the tuning keys at the key-head. After that, tune the open string notes with the lower row of hex screws at the end plate. And then, tune the notes on the strings that lower, with the top row of hex screws. Someone may have already pointed that out. All of this is assuming that the changer is already properly adjusted. If you don't follow this procedure, you will get things out of adjustment, to the point where you are un-necassarily crushing the compression springs that allow for any slack to be taken care of. If you have any thoughts on what I said, please let everyone know. Thanks, Tommy.....

Thanks Tommy,
That first description had my head spinning. Your explanation was short, simple, easy to follow and worked well.
Lynn Stafford set up my D-10 Promat 3 years ago and it stayed in tune really well until a couple of months ago.
I had to tweek the second string.
Been playing since 1975, but this is my first PP steel. Plays so well I don't deserve it.

[Bob Snelgrove]

Any good videos for setting up, repairing a Push Pull besides Clems?

[Paul St. Clair]

I have B-C# raises on three different pedals, A, C, and a D pedal that raises B to C# and G# to A. The A and C pedals are in tune but the D pedal is not. How can I get it in tune. The guitar is a single 10 P/P.

[Dave Magram]

I'd highly recommend Clem Schmitz's bargain-priced booklet "Methodology And Practice In Pedal Steel Guitar" to any Emmons push-pull owner...
The 24-page booklet shows how to make simple adjustments to an Emmons push-pull or even take the entire guitar apart and put it back together...
He sells the booklet and a DVD combo package on eBay listed as "Pedal Steel Guitar 83 METHODOLOGY P/P Book & 2008 2 DVD's Package" for just $20!
https://www.ebay.com/itm/274497649883?h ... XQMmJROe-R
If Clem's material is no longer on eBay, try contacting him at freedomsauce(at)comcast(dot)net (replace the "at" with "@", and "dot" with ".")
Clem is a very helpful guy; I've heard that if you are really stuck, he will guide you through the fix via Skype for a very nominal fee.
- Dave

Paul,
It seems a bit unusual to have B-C# raises on three different pedals, but what do I know?

I'd suggest buying Clem's book & DVD described above and on the previous page of this thread (Posted 4 Aug 2019).

If you are still having difficulty tuning your "D" pedal, you could try contacting Clem via email and asking his advice. He's a very personable guy and very knowledgeable.

- Dave