How to Fix a Broken Electric Guitar String
Broken electric guitar strings are a common occurrence. The strings on an electric guitar are thinner than the strings on an acoustic guitar, which makes them more likely to break after extended or vigorous playing. You can solve this problem easily with a few basic supplies and a few minutes of your time. If you plan to play the electric guitar or have already begun playing, it's a good idea to keep a new pack of strings on hand in case of unexpected breaking.
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Things You'll Need
- String winder (optional)
- Wire cutters (optional)
- Other instrument for tuning (or an electronic tuner)
Instructions
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1
Purchase a new set of electric strings. Make sure you match the gauge (light, medium or heavy) that is already on your guitar.
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2
Remove the broken string by unwinding the tuning keys. You can use a string winder to make this job much easier; this tool attaches to the tuning keys and acts as a wrench for loosening or tightening the strings.
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3
Thread the tip of the new string through the empty hole at the saddle of the guitar (where the old string came out).
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4
Pull the string up the neck of the guitar and thread it through the corresponding tuning key. Thread only about 1 to 2 inches of the string through the hole in the tuning key, making sure to leave a little slack in the string.
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5
Hold the new string near the head of the guitar, keeping it taut as you turn the tuning key to tighten it.
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Check the pitch of the string by comparing it to the correct pitch on another instrument or by using an electronic tuner. Tighten or loosen the string by turning the tuning key until you achieve the desired pitch.
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