Picture the headcap of the neck as the face of a clock, with the top being 12:00 and the nut being 6:00. Start by loading all the strings through the bridge and then loading them onto the keys as follows: How you wind the strings onto the pegs is very important, whether you're using locking, standard or vintage tuning keys. After you've installed and tuned a new set, hold the strings at the first fret and hook your fingers under each string, one at a time, and tug lightly, moving your hand from the bridge to the neck. Make sure to stretch your strings properly. The bullet end has been shaped and sized to match the design of the bridge block channel. This is accomplished by eliminating the extra string wrap and the ball-end (the ball end doesn't fit properly into the string channel). The design allows the string to travel freely in the bridge block channel during tremolo use and return afterwards to its original position, seated snugly in the bridge block. The patented bullet-end is specifically designed for all styles of tremolo use, from extreme dives to smooth vibrato passages. No matter what gauge of strings you use, for the best tuning stability we recommend using Fender Bullet® strings. If you find any of these, you should change your strings. To check if your strings need changing, run a finger underneath the string and feel for dirt, rust or flat spots. Strings that have lost their integrity (worn where pressed against the fret) or have become oxidized, rusty and dirty will not return to pitch properly.

Light machine oil (3-in-1, toy locomotive or gun oil)įor strings to stay in tune, they should be changed regularly.Note: These are minimum specifications that are meant as a guide they should not be construed as hard and fast rules, as we realize that every player's subjective requirements often differ. Modifications of the specs may also be made (within limited parameters) to adjust for your individual playing style or application (i.e., how hard you pick, strum or fret the guitar). If you plan to change string gauges, you may need to adjust the specs somewhat to compensate for the changes in string sizes. The following setup procedures and specifications are for your Stratocaster as equipped with the strings that come on the instrument as standard equipment from the factory.

Fender stratocaster tuning