How to Change the Strings on a Tremolo or Whammy Bar

The tremolo or whammy bar is an arm attached to the bridge and neck of an electric guitar. A tremolo changes the length and tension on guitar strings to create various sound effects. The tremolo or whammy bar was made popular in the 1960's by surf bands.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Allen wrench
• Wire cutters
• Extra strings
• Tuner

1. Loosen the lock nut that holds the strings at the end of the neck of the guitar. Some tremolos have levers instead of lock nuts. Remove the lock nut if necessary.
2. Push in on the tremolo or whammy bar. This loosens the tension on the wires. Unscrew the nut on the back of the tremolo that corresponds to the string you are changing. This loosens the string so you can take it off.
3. Pop the string out of the lock. Take the string off the tuning peg on the end of the neck.
4. Unroll the string. Bend it at a 90-degree angle 1 inch from balled end. Cut the string at the bent edge.
5. Bend the tip of the wire slightly. Place it in the block on the body of the guitar. Tighten the hex nut on the back of the tremolo or whammy bar to hold the string in place.
6. Pull the string down the neck and measure 2 inches from the tuning peg you are working with.
7. Cut the string at the measured point. Feed the string through the tuning peg. Leave 2 inches of string out the other side of the peg.
8. Turn the tuning peg with the tuner to tighten the string. Twist the string around the peg the same way as the other strings are turned. The string needs to be tight after it has wound around the peg three times. Trim the excess wire and tune the guitar.