Converting a pedal steel guitar from a Day setup to an Emmons setup primarily involves reversing the A and C pedals and potentially reconfiguring the knee levers [1] [2] [3]. This process can be undertaken by individuals with basic mechanical skills and patience, without requiring an engineering degree [2].

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Understanding Day vs. Emmons Setups

The core difference between the Day and Emmons setups lies in the arrangement of the first three foot pedals on an E9th neck [1] [3].

• Emmons Setup: The standard configuration where the A pedal (raising B notes to C#) is the leftmost pedal, followed by the B pedal (raising G# notes to A), and then the C pedal (raising 4th and 5th strings a whole step) [1] [4]. This is often referred to as an A-B-C arrangement [1].
• Day Setup: In this configuration, the A and C pedals are reversed compared to the Emmons setup. The pedal that raises the B notes to C# is at the third pedal position, and the pedal that raises the 5th and 4th strings a whole step is at the first pedal position. The B pedal remains in the second position [1]. This is often referred to as a C-B-A arrangement [1] [4].

Historically, both Buddy Emmons and Jimmy Day developed their split pedal systems around the same time, with Emmons' arrangement becoming the more widely adopted standard [3] [5]. The choice between the two often comes down to personal ergonomic preference, particularly how one's ankle naturally rocks to engage pedals [4].

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

1. Documentation and Planning:
   • Before making any changes, thoroughly document the current Day setup [2]. Take numerous photographs of the underside of the guitar, specifically focusing on the bell cranks, rods, and connections for the pedals and knee levers [2].
   • Create a detailed diagram or chart of the current copedent (the specific changes each pedal and lever makes) [2]. This will serve as a reference and help in understanding the mechanics.
   • Lay out the desired Emmons setup on paper, evaluating each change needed from the current configuration [2].

2. Pedal Reversal (A and C Pedals):
   • The primary change involves swapping the A and C pedals [1] [3]. This means the physical pedal that was previously in the first position (C pedal in Day setup) will move to the third position, and the pedal that was in the third position (A pedal in Day setup) will move to the first position [1].
   • The strings can remain in tune during this process [6].
   • For an "all-pull" guitar, this swap should be relatively straightforward, as the cross rods are likely turning in the same direction when a pedal is depressed [2].
   • Adjust pedal heights and knee lever angles for comfort after the swap, as your foot will be centering differently and rocking in the opposite direction [6]. The A pedal typically travels further than the B pedal, so ensure they bottom out together comfortably [6].

3. Knee Lever Reconfiguration:
   • While the A and C pedal swap is the most defining difference, knee lever arrangements also often differ between Day and Emmons setups [3].
   • Many players find it more natural to have the E-raise (F lever) on the Left Knee Left (LKL) and the E-lower (E lever) on the Left Knee Right (LKR) in an Emmons setup [4]. A common preference is to have both E changes on the left knee to avoid interference with volume pedal operation, which is typically controlled by the right foot [4].
   • The process of reconfiguring knee levers can be more involved due to potential reversing mechanisms [2]. Again, detailed documentation of the existing setup is crucial.
   • Consider the ergonomic benefits. For example, the A pedal and F lever (E-raise) are often used together, and the B pedal and E lever (E-lower) are used together, making a fluid motion with the leg desirable [4].

4. Adjustment and Tuning:
   • After making the physical changes, carefully adjust the nylon tuners [2]. A common mistake for beginners is screwing them in too far, which can engage the changer and cause tuning problems [2].
   • Tune the guitar and test each pedal and knee lever to ensure they are making the correct changes and are functioning smoothly [2].
   • It's beneficial to have a "copedent spreadsheet" to track and update the changes [4].

Considerations and Advice

• Patience and Study: No mechanical engineering degree is needed, but patience and careful study of the guitar's mechanisms are essential [2].
• Learning Curve: Even after conversion, there will be a period of adjustment to develop new muscle memory for the Emmons setup [1] [4].
• Professional Help: If uncomfortable performing the conversion yourself, a pedal steel professional can do the work, though this may involve shipping the instrument and incurring costs [1].
• Ergonomics: The ultimate decision on setup should be based on what feels most natural and comfortable for the individual player's ankle and leg mechanics [4].