Pedal lock idea - is this possible?

[Greg Gefell]

Any ideas if/how one could implement a single motion pedal lock to have that pedal's change "stick" until the pedal is pressed again to release it? Ideally this would function like a brake lock where it clicks to lock in place at a certain point and then when you push it down again just a little bit further it unlocks and fully releases. I'm experimenting with the 10 string hybrid sacred steel/E9 tuning and would put the F# to E lower for string 7 on that pedal where it would easily lock into place for framming / auto harp mode. If that's not possible I could try to adapt an E9/B6 lever lock like some have on their universal tuned steels and do it with a hand motion instead. Ultra low tech third option would be something a like a Hipshot D-tuner on that string but those are too bulky to attach to a PSG key head.

[Ian Worley]

That would be a push latch, like in a ball point pen. If you're handy and have the right tools you could make something that does what you want. It would require a spring in the pedal linkage, which would make it feel mushy at the bottom, but if it's a one-trick pony that probably doesn't matter. Have a look here for some inspiration https://youtu.be/3_wPH904a_8?t=431

[Jon Voth]

Ian's link to the thing is neat.

What about how a concert harp pedal works. You would have to machine a way that the pedal would swivel to the side just a bit to stay under a little shelf you welded on. Close to the fulcrum so your feet would be out of the way.

Or...Maybe a Scruggs tuner would be a possibility? It would stick out funny but if you have a single neck maybe?

[Joe A. Roberts]

"Pitch-Key" is another product for the low tech route

[Ian Worley]

Something like a large version of a Hipshot-style cam lever on the pedal itself could do it. You'd have to figure a reasonable way to release it easily though

[Marty Broussard]

[Ian Worley]

Could be something simple like this, attached vertically to the pedal toward the axle with an adjustable strike tang on the pedal rack to engage the lock bolt. Push the pedal down to engage (just like closing a door), tap the button with your toe to release

[Greg Gefell]

Good ideas to look at - thanks for the suggestions. If I figure out a winner I'll post back with what I came up with.

[Bobby D. Jones]

Locking the pedal at the pedal board may not work proper. With other pedals applying pressure and/or movement of the pedal bar, May cause problems with the tuning.

Mechanically, It would be better to to put the lock on the pedal's cross shaft, And may need a spring in the pull, To hold the pull in perfect tune.

There is some 12 string Universal guitars that use a lock lever located behind the guitar neck, Close to your picking hand. That locks the B6th pull. This allows when the D knee lever is engaged, The lever can be locked or unlocked with your picking hand thumb.

Good Luck on this project.