How to Remove the String on an Acoustic Guitar

While most of us enjoy learning chords, scales and our favorite songs on the guitar, it can also be helpful to learn how to fix our strings if the need arises. Knowing the basics of string removal and repair will allow you to quickly replace a broken or damaged string, saving you both time and money paying someone else to fix your string.

Things You'll Need

• String winder
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Place the string winder over the tuning peg that is attached to the string you want to remove.

2. Turn the winder clockwise to loosen the string. Pluck the string and make sure it is lowering in tone, as sometimes the string may have been put on improperly and you will need to wind it counter-clockwise.

3. Pull the string through the tuning peg once it has been fully loosened. This will remove it from the head of the guitar.

4. Use the pliers to pull the bridge pin out that is attached to the string you want to remove. Try twisting as you pull, as this may aid in removing the pin.

5. Pull the ball-end of the string out of the empty hole in the bridge to completely remove it from the guitar.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes bridge pins can break inside the guitar, or after they are removed. Therefore, it is good to keep extras in your guitar case so you do not run into a problem on a gig or in a rehearsal.

Resources

• Acoustic Guitar Resource