The Fender Stratocaster is famous for its versatile tonal capabilities and iconic design, which includes its floating bridge system. Floating the bridge allows for pitch modulation effects and adds expressive elements to your playing. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of floating a Stratocaster bridge, step by step, so you can unlock the full potential of this classic guitar.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- Screwdriver or Allen wrench: To access and adjust the bridge and springs.
- Guitar tuner: To maintain proper tuning throughout the setup.
- Capo: To temporarily lock the strings and ease the process.
- String winder: For faster string changes (optional).
- Tremolo arm: If your Stratocaster includes one (optional).
Step-by-Step Guide to Floating a Stratocaster Bridge:
Step 1: Remove the Back Cover
Begin by removing the cover from the back of your guitar to access the tremolo cavity. If your guitar has a back plate, unscrew and take it off.
Step 2: Adjust the Tremolo Springs
Inside the tremolo cavity, you will see the tremolo springs that counterbalance the string tension. The number of springs varies by guitar, but it’s common to find three.
- To float the bridge, you’ll need to increase the spring tension. Use a screwdriver or an Allen wrench to turn the spring claw screws clockwise. Start with small adjustments, and periodically check the bridge’s position.
- If your Stratocaster has five springs, you can remove one or two to reduce tension and create a more balanced float.
Step 3: Block the Tremolo Cavity (Optional)
For a temporary solution to lock the bridge, you can insert a wooden block or any object that fits snugly into the tremolo cavity. This will prevent the bridge from moving as you work on the setup.
Step 4: Change the Strings (Optional)
If your strings are old or worn, it’s a good time to change them. Use a string winder to speed up the process. However, if you’re comfortable with your current strings, you can skip this step.
Step 5: Tune Up
Tune your guitar to your desired standard tuning using a tuner. Ensure the strings are in tune, but expect the bridge to rest flat against the body at this stage.
Step 6: Adjust the Tremolo Springs (Fine-Tuning)
With your guitar in tune, remove the block from the tremolo cavity. You’ll notice the bridge rising slightly.
- If the bridge is floating too high above the body, tighten the spring claw screws slightly to increase tension and bring it closer to the body.
- If the bridge is sitting flat against the body or you want it to float higher, loosen the spring claw screws to reduce tension.
Step 7: Test the Tremolo Arm
If your Stratocaster includes a tremolo arm, test it to ensure it functions smoothly. Experiment with different tremolo techniques to get a feel for the floating bridge’s responsiveness.
Step 8: Intonation and Action Adjustment
After floating the bridge, check the guitar’s intonation and action. Make any necessary saddle adjustments to ensure the guitar plays in tune along the entire fretboard and has comfortable string action.
Step 9: Final Tuning and Fine-Tuning
Perform a final tuning of your guitar, as the strings may have shifted during the setup process. Expect some minor adjustments as the strings settle in over the next few hours of play.
Floating a Stratocaster bridge adds expressive possibilities to your playing, allowing for pitch modulation effects and dynamic playing techniques. By following these steps and fine-tuning as needed, you’ll have your Stratocaster bridge set up correctly, enhancing your guitar’s tonal palette and versatility. Remember to experiment with the floating bridge to explore its full potential and add a new dimension to your guitar playing. If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any steps, consulting a professional guitar technician or luthier can be a valuable option to ensure your Stratocaster’s optimal performance.
