Tags: music guitar

String Change

• Model: Fender Deluxe Stratocaster
• Model No.: 0147103303
• Tuners: Fender staggered locking tuners
• Strings: Ernie Ball Extra Slinky (.008–.038)

One string at a time. Lock floating tremolo by not removing multiple strings.

Procedure

1. Remove: Loosen, unlock tuner wheel (CCW), pull from tuner and bridge
2. Install: Feed through bridge back, through nut/post, hand-tight
3. Extension past post:
   • High E: 8–10 mm
   • B, G: 6–8 mm
   • D, A, Low E: 5 mm
4. Lock: Hold string, tighten wheel finger-tight (no pliers)
5. Tune: Bring slowly to pitch
6. Stretch: Pull at 12th fret, retune, repeat 3–5× until stable
7. Trim: Cut excess at post

After all six strings

Tune, stretch all, retune, test tremolo arm, retune

Bridge sag fix

If bridge sits lower after gauge change (going from .009 to .008):

• Remove rear cover
• Loosen both tremolo claw screws ~¼ turn each
• Retune and repeat until bridge angle corrects

Key notes

• Locking pin holds string; wraps don’t matter
• Finger-tight locking wheel only
• Stretching is critical for stability
• Leave rear cover on unless adjusting tremolo