Hey all, i was polishing my new deluxe and it sounded like a washer or screw was rattling around under the pickguard. So I took it off and found nothing. As soon as I put it back together it started again. So I took it to my bass player's house (Who generally plays a 57 RI MIJ custom relic). We took it apart again and found nothing. He then determined that it was just the feral washers that sit in between the pots and the pickguard on the inside. Anyone else had this problem?? ( I want to add that in no way has this effected the sound of the strat when playing through my amp so if its not a structural defect I'll probably just live with it.) Thanks!!

_________________
2009 2 Tone Sunburst American Deluxe Maple Fretboard
2008 Larrivee OM-03R A/E

If the washers are moving and they are between the pot and the pickguard bottom then you need to tighten the nut on the other side of the pickguard. That nut which you will find one you take the knob off, should be tightened. You don't have to get crazy with the wrench but enought to keep the pot from spinning and from that washer from flopping around and causing you and your bass player to drink heavily while you search for the illusive noise. Often there is also a lock washer under there that grips the pickguard to assist it from moving. Take all three knobs off and tighten all of them while you are at it.

Thanks!

_________________
2009 2 Tone Sunburst American Deluxe Maple Fretboard
2008 Larrivee OM-03R A/E

Rattlesnake shake. Shake, shake, shake... Sorry, just couldn't resist:D

_________________
Fender American DLX Hss Strat RWOP->
Biyang OD-8->
Marshall JCM800 4211 -combo->
THE sound;)

I noticed the same thing on both my Am Standards. I haven't fully investigated but I figured the rattling is the tremolo arm spring. (I've yet to use the tremolo on either one and the factory tape is still covering the hole.)

-phil

_________________
Then again, what do I know ... I've only been playin' for 6 months ... !