Replacement Tuner Installation?

[SDK_CFA]

Now that the holidays are approaching, I am about to embark on my annual pilgrimage to GSI to make a guitar-related purchase. This year, I would like to buy new tuning machines to upgrade the current set on my Alhambra 11C. (Great guitar, but I think a tuning machine upgrade will serve me well.)

Question: How difficult is installing replacment tuning machines? What should I be most concerned about? Is this work that is best left to professionals, or could anyone with a modest amount of mechanical skill pull it off gracefully and without regrets?

BTW, I see the new GSI catalog has a section that emphasizes replacement tuners, so I suspect any direction provided by knowledgeable responders would be appreciated by more than just myself.

Thanks!

[rquinones27]

Replacing your tuners shouldn't be hard to do as long as you buy tuners with the correct spacing. I replaced the tuners on my Cordoba and it made a big difference visually as well as functionally. If the screw holes don't match to the existing ones, you can fill them with some wood glue and a toothpick. Of course if in doubt, take it to a luthier that can do the job for you.

[SDK_CFA]

Roberto, what did you use as replacement tuners? I think Cordoba and higher-end Alhambras use the same tuners. So, if your replacements fit yours, they should also fit mine.

Thanks again!

[rquinones27]

I replaced the original tuners with Gotoh tuners with the "lyra shape". I didn't even have to re-drill the holes, as the Gotoh had the same hole pattern. It took me all of 20 minutes to do, and I haven't had any problems at all.

[nikpearson]

Replacing tuners is relatively easy but you must get the correct roller spacing. I replaced the standard (stiff and unprecise) tuners on my Contreras C5 with top quality Schallers - about £40. The screw holes didn't all line up but it was a simple matter to carefuly drill new holes with a dremmel or similar. In most case the old holes will be covered by the tuner plate. If not buy a different model. This easy upgrade certainly makes a huge difference in tuning precision and the general feel of your instrument - why do classical makers persist in putting crappy tuners on high quality student guitars. Any steel string over £500 will have quality tuners so why not classical instuments?