I have a technical question regarding strat Tremolos.

I'm building a strat from parts bought seperatly. Of course, I need to put a trem on my highway one body. My body has 6 holes for the vintage trem block.

Would it be a big job to install a 2-points trem instead? Do you think the 2-points screws would fit in the already drilled holes (maybe need to enlarge the holes though)?

Thanks

It is possible, but I'd advise you to proceed with caution. Personally, I'd do leave it as is (probably loosen the four center screws) and maybe change the bent-steel saddles to a modern block style.

Not the first time this question has been asked!

If you have access to a good drill press that will make it a lot easier. You need to fill the 6 holes with wooden dowel of the proper size. Glue them in and let the glue set. Trim off the excess and make sure to sand the dowels smooth to the top. Measure where the saddles need to be placed. You have to be very accurate in your placement of the new bridge. (I would use an American Strat and take the measurements off that if one is available). Tape off the body of the guitar so you don't mess the finish up. Make your marks on the tape. Then drill the two post holes exactly perpendicular to the body and watch your depth or you'll go through it......

Did I mention it is easier to use the existing 6 hole trem like the poster mentioned above? It actually works almost as well as the 2 point trem does.

Your going to have to rout out the trem block area a bit to make the new block fit properly also. So you need a 1/2 inch round rasp or a router. If you don't have really good tools - or a tech who would do some of the work for you, you can mess it up.

Ha! Well that saved some time typing - thanks, 93greenstrat!

Good luck, Levenso.

Cheers - C

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Why would you want to change it? it would effect any resale in the future if you wanted to sell. and won't make any difference. Just change out the unit if you don't like the factory or better yet buy another guitar . You can not have to many
Good luck

Thanks for the info, and sorry for re-asking this question.

Since there's no real advantage to change for a 2-point trem, then I'll stay with a 6 holes trem.

The simple solution is to install a Callaham quality bridge and install just the two outside screws. If the wood is too soft, install the inner screws and raise them as suggested by Fender and adjust the outside screws so that they are almost flush with the bridge when the bridge is pulled back, or flush with the bridge, as Fender instructs, if the trem won't stabilize in a modified floating position.

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"The individual is handicapped by coming face to face with a Conspiracy so monstrous he cannot believe it exists. The American mind simply has not come to a realization of the evil which has been introduced into our midst." J. Edgar Hoover

If you have concerns about the 6 point trem I suggest you purchase the Dan Erlewine book "How to Make your Electric Guitar Play Great. Lots of good info there.

I have that book here. Contrary to Fender's instructions, he suggests leaving all six screws close but not flush with the face of the bridge. Then, he suggests making Callaham type modifications to the bridge plate and saddles for better tuning stability, which is why I suggested a Callaham quality bridge.

I found two screws on solid wood, not flush, to be more stable than 6 screws Fender style or otherwise.

To each his own I guess!

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"The individual is handicapped by coming face to face with a Conspiracy so monstrous he cannot believe it exists. The American mind simply has not come to a realization of the evil which has been introduced into our midst." J. Edgar Hoover

If you haven't done so, take a look at a Super Vee Bladerunner trem. I have one in a MIM Strat and it does what the manufacturer says it will do. It's a direct drop in so no holes to fill and drill.