software

OK, my strat has a floating Vintage Style Synchronized Tremolo, and I just want to know some things:

When I change strings, what should I do?? Should I just take the strings off and new ones on (same guage/ tension) and the bridge will go up back to where it was?? Or should I put it against the body first then raise??

How do I raise/ lower the trem? (Is it those 2 screws under the back plate?)

Can I inotate it with it up, or do I have to bring it down first?

Should I leave my backplate conver on or off?? (for ease of adjustments)

I plan to keep it in standard so I don't have to **** around with it (I'll leave my Squier to alternate tunings)

I have 3 springs now...would more/ less just change how much pressure I have to use to move it??Is there any other tips for having a Vintage Style Synchronized Tremolo ?? Or anything I should be aware of??
It stays in tune VERY well (its an MIM strat) I was VERY surprised how well it stays in, and i want it floating so I can raise the pitch, and for something different that I've never done before.

Thanks!

Cant you just put a stack of papers under the back of it? Thats what i do with my floyd when I change strings.

if you want to have the ability to pull notes up with the trem bar, then your bridge needs to be floating.

if your trem is floating, change one string at a time.

intonate your bridge in whatever position you keep it. if its against the body intonate it there, if its floating...

to raise or lower the trem you either add/remove springs or turn the two screws that hold the plate that the springs are attached to. when the bridge is floating you need to balance the tension of the strings at what ever tuning you are going to use and the tension of the springs in back.
if you add more springs youll increase the tension on the strings bringing the bridge closer to the body. it will also make the feel of the trem bar more stiff. screwing the screws in the body more will have less effect on the feel of the bar but there is a limited amount of adjustment so in many cases with heavy strings a combination of additional springs and turning the screws works best

the back plate thing is preferance, doesnt really matter all that much. ive heard people talk of it changing the tone but i dont think i can hear it. never a/b'd them but...
if you play behind your head, keep the cover on


Originally Posted by MephisCant you just put a stack of papers under the back of it? Thats what i do with my floyd when I change strings.

Right. I made a little wooden wedge so it's always at the same height when I change strings. Same difference.

There used to be an article on the web someplace on how to set up amp; maintain a strat with a vintage trem. If I can find it, I'll post the link. I think it was by Dan Erlwine.

Thanks guys.

And Jeremy, it IS floating right now. I was going to go from 9's to 10-52, but I might go to my beloved 10-46 for a couple sets, then move up....

Any suggestions on making some sort of wedge?? I like the height it's at now, so I want to be able to keep it there or adjust it to there wen I need too.


Originally Posted by Kamanda~SDThanks guys......

Any suggestions on making some sort of wedge?? I like the height it's at now, so I want to be able to keep it there or adjust it to there wen I need too.

Not really, I just had a scrap of wood that was close to the right size, amp; filed it until it just fit between the base of the bridge and the top of the guitar. Nuthin' fancy.

I'll do something like that... thanks

I havent tried it, but I've read where someone suggested wrapping a pencil or screwdriver in electrical tape and using it. A pencil might break under enough force, but the screwdriver will definitely hold. Also, if you find something the perfect size, you can wedge it between the trem block and the body from the back side and you won't take ANY chances of damaging the finish.

I actually used a magazine to put between the bridge and the body the last time I changed strings on my Floyd, so it's just a matter of what you can find. Just be sure that if you use it on the front side that your wedge doesn't have any rough spots on it that could damage the finish (or don't worry about it if it's just an old beater guitar that's already scratched up pretty bad ).

Thanks, Ill try that, and no, I dont really mind if the finish gets small scratches at the trem...really anywhere, I hate when people are overprotective. Don't get me wrong, I dont throw my guitar onto the stand or anything, but...I wont cry if it bangs into a wall.

Also, I think getting a block from behind will be easier to find and wedge in so it stayd there.

Also, is there any harm in having the backplate off?? I think it will just be more convienient and I also like the way it looks.


Originally Posted by Kamanda~SDAlso, is there any harm in having the backplate off?? I think it will just be more convienient and I also like the way it looks.

Not a problem. Just don't get anything important caught in the springs.....


Originally Posted by Big Boy BobNot a problem. Just don't get anything important caught in the springs.....

Ok, I'll put on some shorts or something

Try using a 9 volt battery covered in electric tape to hold the trem up. Thats what I do.