How to Replace a Floyd Rose String Saddle

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By Greg Johnson
eHow Contributing Writer

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A locking tremolo system like the Floyd Rose design can be a great asset to a guitarist, but it can also be exasperating to maintain. The great number of adjustable parts that need to be always kept in balance with each other and with the string tension makes for a daunting repair in the case of failure. Thankfully, replacing a Floyd Rose string saddle is a relatively straightforward operation, though it will take some adjustment to align the intonation after installation. You should be familiar with these adjustments on your unit before you begin.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Floyd Rose-equipped guitar
Complete string saddle assembly for Floyd Rose systems
Light machinist oil
New guitar strings
Allen wrenches

Step 1

Remove the string that locks into the saddle you want to replace. You will need to replace at least this string once finished.
Step 2

Remove the string clamp screw that feeds out the back of the tremolo unit.
Step 3

Loosen and remove the intonation-adjustment screw that clamps the front of the saddle to the tremolo baseplate. Remember which hole held the screw.
Step 4

Remove the old saddle.
Step 5

Place the new saddle in approximately the same position as the old one and clamp it down using the intonation-adjustment screw you removed in Step 3.
Step 6

Re-string the saddle and tune. You will need to insert the string clamp screw into the back of the saddle to clamp the string.
Step 7

Check intonation of the string. If necessary, detune and adjust the saddle to compensate, and retune. Repeat as often as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

It will be easier to work with the tremolo unit if it is removed from the guitar. Try to schedule your repair around a regular string change so you can remove all the strings from the unit and take it out of the guitar. This will also prevent the tone coloration that occurs when you add only one new string.
Do not force or pry any stuck screws or saddles in your unit. If you have trouble removing or installing a saddle, take your guitar to a qualified repair shop.

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