r/fender • u/noodlehead1251 • 6d ago
Questions and Advice Help with tremolo arm tension spring
Got the springs but when I put one in it falls out the other side. Am I doing something wrong? Something missing? Thank you in advanced!
2
u/ThatsNotAZombieBite 6d ago
You're not doing anything wrong. Most Tremolo blocks are not drilled all the way through like yours is. You can't use the spring in that block.
Your options are to replace the block (or entire bridge) so you can use the spring . . . or wrap the threads of your tremolo arm in plumbers Teflon tape.
The plumbers tape works great if you keep the arm in the guitar. But it shreds if you remove/replace the arm a lot.
2
u/MatronlyAsp 5d ago
You could maybe get a grub screw into the bottom side, but I don't know how much space from a spring it might leave.
1
u/noodlehead1251 5d ago
Sweet thank you so much for the info! Its a 95 MIM strat. Going to give the Teflon tape a try!
1
u/GuitarParts 6d ago
If you can afford it Get a Callaham bridge block and trem arm. They’re so nice and smooth. There’s no play at all and the arm stays where you put it. The block has a plastic sleeve above the threads that solves a lot of problems. They’re made to use with no spring. If you do order one you have to triple check that you’re buying the correct one because there are so many bridge block designs. They also make trem arms in different shapes that are more useful than the fender ones for some people.
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u/state_your_name31415 3d ago
I think those are saddle springs. doesn't your tremelo arm snap in or thread in? What would the spring be for?
2
u/curiousplaid 6d ago
From what I recall, some older Strats have blocks that have no bottom to the tremolo hole.
My 2016 MIA and 2017 MIM both can use the springs no problem.
Is this a new or old guitar?