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Lordathestrings
Gear Guru
Joined: 01/18/01
Posts: 6,242
Lordathestrings
Gear Guru
Joined: 01/18/01
Posts: 6,242
07/11/2007 10:26 pm
Dropping two full sizes in your string gauge means that there is now a lot less string tension pulling on your bridge. In order to return the bridge to its former position, you will need to reduce the counter-force provided by the springs inside the guitar.

Remove the back cover. The springs go from the bridge to a 'claw'. Two screws adjust the claw position, setting the spring tension. With .013" strings, there are probably 4, or even 5 springs. For your new .010" strings, 3 springs should do the job. Remove any extra springs, and store them where you can find them if you ever decide to change back to heavier strings.

The screws adjust the claw position, changing the tension on the springs, which counteract the string tension on the bridge. Turning the screws clockwise will move the claw further away from the bridge, applying more spring tension. Counter-clockwise reduces the spring tension. Be sure to adjust both screws evenly.

The 'standard' setup sets the bridge plate flat, allowing the trem bar to only move towards the guitar body. If you want to be able to pull up on the bar, you will need to adjust the spring tension so that the bridge is raised slightly.

It will take a while to get things balanced properly. Each change in the spring tension will require re-tuning the strings. If your strings were not stretched properly as part of the installation, they will gradually slack off, requiring another spring-adjusting session. Once it's set up, though, it should be fairly stable.
Lordathestrings
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