The main difference is how the gtr is strung. Most floating bridges you have to run the string either through the back of the bridge or the back of the gtr. With the Floyd Rose you acatually cut the little ball off the end (or thread the string backwards) and basically "clamp" the bridge end in with an allen wrench bolt. It's not that difficult at all. In my experience it's a real good way of stringing a gtr, probably why it's patented. As far as body work on a Fender Strat..... that would all depend on what bridge the Fender has on it to begin with. If it's not a floating bridge then... yes there will be major body work. If it's a floating bridge but it rests primatily on top of the gtr's surface there will be a lot of body work as well. The Floyd Rose rests in a cavity cut out of the body. Best best would be to take the Fender to a pro and ask him exactly what would need to be done and $$$. I wouldn't sugesst just swapping bridges. Intonations can be thrown WAY off if you don't take them into consideration whenever adjusting a bridge of any sort. Hope this helps.