Replacement pegs

[bbqthis]

Hello! I got a Dunhuang 04A from Sound of Asia a while ago, have been playing it and all that, and it's been lovely.

However, the photos they have on the site show matching lacquered pegs, but the model that was delivered did not have matching pegs. Carol said that Dunhuang had changed the pegs on that model but they hadn't updated the photos.

I decided to replace the pegs myself and order a set from China, however they seem to be too thick and don't stick out the front as far as the original pegs, which would mess up the tension. 

Anyone have experience replacing pegs on an erhu? Recommended way of making the pegs thinner? 

[davidmdahl]

Welcome to the forum, Bbqthis. Careful use of sandpaper should reduce the thickness of your new pegs. Definitely do not mess with the size of the peg holes. If you mess up a peg, and take too much wood off, you can always try again with another peg.

Unless you are very confident in your woodworking skills, you might look for help from a luthier. If you are in an area with instrument makers, someone used to working on violins and cellos should be able to handle fitting the new pegs. That's what I would do.

Best wishes,

David