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How To Hardtail a Floyd Rose – Step By Step Guide

The Floyd Rose bridge is a beloved and widely used tremolo system for electric guitars, allowing for expressive and dynamic playing styles. However, some players may prefer the stability and tuning retention of a hardtail bridge, which does not have a tremolo system. Hardtailing a Floyd Rose can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a relatively simple process.
Tools and Materials

Electric guitar with Floyd Rose bridge
Hardtail bridge (compatible with your guitar’s dimensions and string spacing)
Drill and drill bits
Screwdriver
Ruler or measuring tape
Masking tape or painter’s tape
Permanent marker
Screws and anchors (if necessary)

Step 1: Remove the Old Bridge

Before beginning the hardtailing process, it is important to properly remove the old Floyd Rose bridge. Begin by loosening the strings and removing them from the guitar. Next, use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the bridge in place. Carefully lift the bridge off of the guitar, taking note of its position and any shims or spacers that may be present.

Step 2: Measure and Mark

Using a ruler or measuring tape, measure the distance between the outermost screw holes on the guitar’s top. Transfer these measurements to the new hardtail bridge, using masking tape or painter’s tape and a permanent marker to mark the locations of the screw holes.

Step 3: Drill and Install

Using a drill and the appropriate size drill bit, carefully drill holes in the marked locations on the hardtail bridge. Take care not to drill too deep or at an angle, as this can damage the bridge or the guitar. Next, place the hardtail bridge on the guitar, aligning the screw holes with those on the guitar’s top. If necessary, use screws and anchors to secure the bridge in place.

Step 4: Adjust and Test

Once the hardtail bridge is installed, it is important to adjust the intonation and test the guitar’s tuning stability. Use a guitar tuner to ensure that the open strings are in tune, and make any necessary adjustments by moving the saddle pieces on the hardtail bridge.

Hardtailing a Floyd Rose can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a relatively simple process. By following the above steps, you can enjoy the stability and tuning retention of a hardtail bridge while still playing your favorite guitar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would I want to hardtail a Floyd Rose?

A hardtail bridge does not have a tremolo system, which means that it offers more stability and tuning retention compared to a Floyd Rose bridge. Some players may prefer the stability and tuning retention of a hardtail bridge for a more consistent playing experience.
Can the hardtailing process be reversed?

No, once a guitar with a Floyd Rose bridge is hardtailed, it is not reversible. It’s important to make sure that you’re comfortable with the modification before making it.
Will hardtailing a Floyd Rose affect the guitar’s resale value?

Yes, hardtailing a Floyd Rose may affect the guitar’s resale value, so it’s important to consider this before making any permanent modifications to your instrument.
Can I do this myself or do I need a professional guitar technician?

While it is possible to hardtail a Floyd Rose yourself, if you’re not comfortable with drilling and drilling bits, you may want to consider finding a professional guitar technician to do the job for you.
Will I need any special tools or materials?

Electric guitar with Floyd Rose bridge
Hardtail bridge (compatible with your guitar’s dimensions and string spacing)
Drill and drill bits
Screwdriver
Ruler or measuring tape
Masking tape or painter’s tape
Permanent marker
Screws and anchors (if necessary)

Will it improve my guitar’s tuning stability?

Hardtailing a Floyd Rose can improve your guitar’s tuning stability, as the hardtail bridge does not have a tremolo system which means that it offers more stability and tuning retention compared to a Floyd Rose bridge. However, it’s important to adjust the intonation and test the guitar’s tuning stability after installation.