Author Topic: Strat wont stay in tune - is it my stringing technique? (Read 5040 times)

_tom_ · « **on:** May 02, 2007, 10:25:52 AM »

Decided to string up my new parts strat yesterday and I cant get anything to stay in tune. When I bend etc it just goes right out. I've never used the vintage slot-style tuners before, so I'm wondering whether I've not put enough winds around the posts - I always assumed less winds was good for tuning for some reason, I'm sure I read it somewhere. Anyway, this is how they are now:

Is that bad? If not, what else could be causing these tuning problems? I have the bridge locked down with 5 springs so I dont think it can be that. So the only other things that can affect it are nut and tuners (I think)

Thanks!

Philly Q · « **Reply #1 on:** May 02, 2007, 10:57:01 AM »

A small number of winds is good, because there's less string to stretch, but there have to be enough winds to hold the strings securely to the posts.

From your pic (nice and clear!) it does look like there aren't enough winds. The usual method with those vintage-style tuners is to pull the string tight, cut it about 2 inches past the tuner post then push the end into the centre hole of the post and start winding. You should have about 3 full windings round the post for tuning not to slip.

FELINEGUITARS · « **Reply #2 on:** May 02, 2007, 11:00:00 AM »

Quote from: Philly Q

A small number of winds is good, because there's less string to stretch, but there have to be enough winds to hold the strings securely to the posts.

From your pic (nice and clear!) it does look like there aren't enough winds. The usual method with those vintage-style tuners is to pull the string tight, cut it about 2 inches past the tuner post then push the end into the centre hole of the post and start winding. You should have about 3 full windings round the post for tuning not to slip.

+1

I usually allow 3" past the post in total before cutting the string
the first half inch or so goes down the hole and the rest winds on
great design of head

Ratrod · « **Reply #3 on:** May 02, 2007, 12:07:01 PM »

If these tips don't work, I would suggest some locking tuners.

Oh, and don't forget to lube the nut slots.

_tom_ · « **Reply #4 on:** May 02, 2007, 01:52:17 PM »

Ok thanks for the replies. Looks like I've just wasted a fresh set of strings

38thBeatle · « **Reply #5 on:** May 02, 2007, 07:37:43 PM »

I agree with the guys above Tom plus also remember to give the strings a good stretch. My Strats are very stable in terms of tuning.

_tom_ · « **Reply #6 on:** May 02, 2007, 07:46:28 PM »

Yeah I've been stretching these strings no end so it must just be my cr@p stringing :lol: Should've consulted my "totally guitar" repair/maintenance book before stringing it up - its just told me exactly what this thread has :oops:

CJ · « **Reply #7 on:** May 03, 2007, 01:45:11 AM »

i can't see how they haven't ripped out yet while playing! definitely need a few more wraps.

scott_1985 · « **Reply #8 on:** May 30, 2007, 10:46:43 PM »

I had similar problems a little while back. I now make sure there is a margin for it. 2 inches is a good idea from what the other chap said earlier.

hunter · « **Reply #9 on:** May 31, 2007, 04:17:16 AM »

+1 on all above and lubricating

Another thing: strat bridges are real bitches to fine tune. I had huge issues until I worked on the screws holding the trem (they were too tight and one was out of line) - maybe it could be better to only use 2 - the other one is the spring tension - I had it too tight as well. Experimenting with these could be the best bet if restringing doesn't fix it.

Good luck!

pagan7 · « **Reply #10 on:** June 01, 2007, 09:40:34 PM »

Agree with all the above...allow at least 2 inches..or 2 post distance past the one you're putting the string in and put a right angle bend in the the string at that point and cut off the excess 1/2 an inch past the bend..then put the bent section down the hole and start tuning. Also run a pencil end through the nut slots to lubricate it, and a set of GraphTech string saver saddles work great too..the strings are lubricated where they bend down into the block and the grub screws are shorter so they don't dig into the edge of your hand when you're palm muting...the way the Fender ones tend to.