I got the right-handed Kluson Double Line tuners in the mail today and decided to flip 'em, without applying any heat.
The tabs looked pretty thick and I was afraid of breaking one off, so I thought I'd enlisted the help of my dad, a machinist.
I also thought, why not snap some pics for the learning forum while I'm at it.
I now present:
How to flip a set of Kluson tuners from R.H. to L.H.
The first step is to get under the tab closest to the string post with a small flat screwdriver, using the post for leverage.
Gently twist the blade of the screwdriver to pry the tab up. Not straight up, but enough for the back cover to swing open.
Then, using a pliers (I call the big one Bitey) push the first tab through the plate.
Wedge the back cover open slightly with a screwdriver, bending the second tab up enough to get under it.
Once you've opened it this far, you can push it back down and begin prying up the second tab.
A small pliers, or wire cutter if you're careful, won't mar the plating as much as the screwdriver.
With the two tabs now bent back, work the back cover & tuning key off.
The open back, righty...
...now lefty. Make sure to keep the bushings on the inside.
The keys fit either way because the covers are symmetrical.
Line the tabs up with the slots and press it back together.
Use the large pliers to bend the tabs back into place. You can protect the stampings on the back with a rag.
The covers are on tight, and it turns as smoothly as the untampered machine head.
Just do these steps 5 more times and you're done.
Pops said the metal was surprisingly mailable and thought it could be brass.
Why they don't sell a left handed version of these, I'll never know. They're the same parts, just assembled differently.
