First step in the Strat style restring is the string removal. After cutting off the strings, feed them through the back of the trem block. When all the strings have been taken out, insert the new strings into their prospective holes as seen in the picture on the left. Remember that the order will be backwards since this is the back of the guitar.

Next, pull the strings through the intonator saddles. Make sure that the string's ball end is seated properly. Failing to do this can cause the string to loose almost all of it's tension. This isn't funny if you're in the middle of a song on stage. If string seating is a problem on your guitar, try using Fender Super Bullets. They are made to eliminate slippage on Strats.

Once you are sure the string is seated properly in the block, insert the string into the machine head from the label side. Pull the string over your right hand, grasping the neck shown in the picture on the left. Doing this, and the following steps, will provide you with a consistant wrap without the need for multiple windings that can slip and put your guitar out of tune.

After you have the correct string amount from the preceeding page, crimp the string toward the label. Pull the string down so it is parallel to itself. At this point, you should be able to tug the string with your right hand and it shouldn't move. You are now ready for the most critical part of the restring.

A misconception about string wrapping is, the more wraps on the tuner post the better. The more wraps you put on a tuning post, the less likely the string will be tight. This causes the string to slowly go flat while you play. Wraps on wound strings are more troublesome as the string can shift and make tremolo use eratic. Take the end of the string under itself and wrap it back around the top as shown. When you tighten the head, you will notice that the windings are now perpendicular and friction is eliminated.

It will take anywhere from eleven to fifteen turns to get the string close to pitch. The wrap should look like the picture on the left. If you have a floating bridge, you may have to tune the guitar a fe times to achieve concert pitch. A fast way to do this is called "cross tuning". Tune the low E, the high E, the A, the B, the D and finally the G, then repeat.

While still keeping tension on the string with your right hand, tune the string to pitch. If you've left enough slack on the string to create a complete wind or two, at the tuning post, guide the string "under" the previous winding. This ensures the string has a good "breakover" angle at the nut.