EVH Wolfgang D-Tuna issue

[bsp212]

First, thanks to everyone who may have some input for a solution on this.

Second, yes, I've used the search function and I've read all the 5+ year old threads on this topic but I haven't found a solution to the issue.

Here's the info:

EVH Wolfgang USA Signature Edition Stealth Black - build date 01/19. I purchased in 05/19. Still using the same gauge strings as set up from the factory. D-tuna goes to within about 1/4 step sharp of being in tune. Here's the list of what I've tried:

1) I've made sure the bridge is resting evenly on the guitar body
2) Adjusting the set screw - it still goes sharp with the set screw backed all the way out.
3) I replaced the locking block inside the FR saddle. - Still goes sharp.
4) I replaced the D-tuna screw - still goes sharp
5) I found a nub left behind on the string claw that was contacting the guitar body (Fender trims these off on the USA Wolfgangs) and filed that off - still goes sharp
6) Replaced the D-tuna assembly - still goes sharp

I'm beginning to think it may be a flaw in the bridge. Maybe the chrome is too thick in one spot or something like that? Has anyone else run into this issue?

Thanks,
bsp212

 

[Gtrjunior]

EVH Wolfgang D-Tuna issue

I’ve not had that issue with any of mine.
And you may or may not already know but I’ll put it out there anyway....
You need to tune the guitar to drop D first (with the Floyd fine tuner backed all the way out)...then push in the D-Tuna and fine tune to E with the little 1/16th hex bolt.
Like I said, you probably already know that....[emoji16]

 

[bsp212]

Re: EVH Wolfgang D-Tuna issue

I’ve not had that issue with any of mine.
And you may or may not already know but I’ll put it out there anyway....
You need to tune the guitar to drop D first (with the Floyd fine tuner backed all the way out)...then push in the D-Tuna and fine tune to E with the little 1/16th hex bolt.
Like I said, you probably already know that....[emoji16]

Thanks for the input, but yes to the above. This is actually my 1/2 step down guitar - not that it makes a difference in this case, but it is tuned to C# or D flat, whatever you want to call it because it does the same thing tuned to standard drop D. Even with the fine tuner backed out all the way, and the set screw backed out all the way, tuned to perfect drop pitch when out, it goes sharp 1/4 step when you engage it. Right now I’m having to compensate by tuning a little flat so I can back out the fine tuner when it goes sharp. It’s just frustrating because all of my others work correctly.

 

[Howlermonkey]

Re: EVH Wolfgang D-Tuna issue

String gauge and tuning can affect the authority of the d-tuna.

 

[bsp212]

Re: EVH Wolfgang D-Tuna issue

String gauge and tuning can affect the authority of the d-tuna.

Correct, and above you will see where I am using the same gauge strings as factory setup, which is the same as on my other Wolfgang, and it does it on standard drop D tuning as well as tuned down 1/2 step.

 

[Gtrjunior]

Re: EVH Wolfgang D-Tuna issue

Maybe you’ve just got a defective one?

 

[bsp212]

Re: EVH Wolfgang D-Tuna issue

Maybe you’ve just got a defective one?

Closure in the saga of the D-tuna:

I'm posting this so if anyone runs into the same issue I did, they will have another option to try to fix it.

After swapping it for an extra I had in a box of parts, and having the same issues, completely changing the bridge for an identical one and having the same issue with the both D-tunas on both bridges. Before doing anything else, I changed string gauges to a hybrid with a thicker bottom end but this didn't work either.

The final fix was to take a file and remove some of the hard chrome from the center channel of the D-Tuna. Basically all I did was wear through the chrome down to the copper plating underneath. Problem solved.

My conclusion: Both D-tuna's and bridges I tried were from the same or close to the same manufacturing batches. There's no way to tell for sure because one was installed on the guitar from the factory, the other was purchased from an eBay seller close to the same time the guitar was built. The only thing I can come up with is the production tolerances had this batch on the end that didn't work well or the plating went on a little thick.

 

[JB_From_Hell]

Re: EVH Wolfgang D-Tuna issue

15 or so years ago, I tried installing one on several different guitars. I don't remember the specific issues, but even when it did kind of work, I hated it. With all the BS that went into setting it up, even if it had worked right, using the fine tuner to go back and forth was easier.

Also, it looks stupid, and I think having a locking setup on a bridge that doesn't float is pointless. Especially with modern locking tuners and graphite nuts and whatnot.

 

[bsp212]

Re: EVH Wolfgang D-Tuna issue

15 or so years ago, I tried installing one on several different guitars. I don't remember the specific issues, but even when it did kind of work, I hated it. With all the BS that went into setting it up, even if it had worked right, using the fine tuner to go back and forth was easier.

Also, it looks stupid, and I think having a locking setup on a bridge that doesn't float is pointless. Especially with modern locking tuners and graphite nuts and whatnot.

It's definitely not an accessory I would buy separately and add on. I did that once years ago when they were first available as an accessory and ended up taking it off the guitar.