Floyd Rose and the Four Springs - Guitar Repairs

Floyd Rose Tremolos and New Strings

Floyd Rose tremolos are renowned for being difficult to work with, but they are not as hard to adjust as many people make out. Going up or down a string size can cause problems, though! 

Recently, I changed the string gauge on my Floyd Rose equipped guitar from a 9 gauge D'Addario to a 10 gauge string. Sometimes, simply tightening the tremolo claw set screws will work, but in this case adding a fourth spring was necessary!

As you can see from the picture above and below, once the screws were tightened down they did not have the correct tension - either the Floyd Rose was recessed into the body of the guitar (and would not stay in tune) or it was pulling up out of the guitar (and would not stay in tune).

I decided to add another spring to my guitar - first, loosen the strings to take pressure off of the bridge, then unscrew the two claw screws about three quarters of the way. At this point, I also decided to replace the tremolo claw screws, so I removed one screw at a time, put the new one in and then did the next one.

Replace the screws one at a time after most of the tension has been relieved.

Thread the new screws into same same holes as the old ones - if the holes are loose, insert a toothpick to tighten them!

Next, I realigned the springs so that four could fit in - always make sure the springs are evenly distributed on both the tremolo block and the claw spring!

Next, I re-tightened the set screws until I had a decent amount of tension and then began tuning the guitar. If the tremolo keeps pulling up and the guitar does not stay in tune, you will need to gradually tighten the tremolo claw screws. Think of the springs and the strings like two sides of a teeter totter - both sides must have the exact amount of pressure to keep a Floyd Rose tremolo in tune.

Tighten the screws about 1/2 turn at a time, then re-tune the guitar. Do this until the guitar stays in tune. Occasionally during this process, work the tremolo up and down with the whammy bar.

Once the tremolo is properly adjusted it should be on an even plane with the body of the guitar, or have a very slight elevation (as seen below).

Now the guitar is perfectly in tune! Below you will see why I decided to replace the tremolo claw screws as well - these screws are notorious for being ruined by having the over tighten them, usually because you don't have the exact size of screwdriver necessary.

So if you have a Floyd Rose tremolo, don't be scared to make these adjustments - just go slow, make sure you have the right tools and parts before you begin - in this case, the correct size screwdriver and a pair of needle nose pliers to move the springs to the proper places.

Of course, if you need help you can always come by James House of Deals & Pawn - we offer a wide range of guitar adjustments and guitar repair Lincolnton players need - and string changes and set ups are on sale right now! Just swing by the music store Lincolnton players now have available to them for all the music gear Lincolnton needs.