How many springs for what guage of strings

[bfloyd6969]

Is there a general rule of thumb for how many springs to use per what guage of strings being used for floating trems? Would this be different for dive only trems? I'm currently using three springs with .10 guage strings. I've been wanting to go to .09 guage strings but wonder if I should go to two springs for this. I'm currently using the bridge floating. Thanks.

[DonP]

I'm not sure. I know you don't need to go to two springs for 9s, but try it anyway and tell us what the difference is.

[nhspike]

I like 9/42 gage, and when possible, try to go with 2 springs, floating.
Standard tuning.
Claw has to be sucked up pretty close to the body.

[toejam]

Whatever you prefer. I always used 4 or 5 springs in my Floyded guitars, just because I prefer the stiffer feel of the Floyd that way.

[Rich#6]

i always used 4 or 5 springs in my floyded guitars, just because i prefer the stiffer feel of the floyd that way.

beefcake!

[metalchurch79]

9-42 = 3 springs. The outer 2 are straight and the middle spring is at the center of the claw and offset to the bass side on the block.
Like this:
| / |

8-38 = 2 springs. They are connected to the #2 and#4 positions on the claw, and the outer slots on the block.
Like this:
/ \

That's my personal preference, like stated it all depends on trial and error and finding what works for you.
Edit: I tune all my guitars to Eb

[toejam]

beefcake!

Follow your dreams. Beefcake!

[laihojrxo]

well, i use 4 springs on my guitars that's on standard, and 3 springs on drop Ds (9-42 gauge). lower action w/ a bit of buzz is the way to go!

[bfloyd6969]

Thanks everyone. For those using three springs with 9~42 strings, how far away is your claw from the body? I am using three springs with 10~48 in a fan pattern (inner three claw hooks and outers and middle block holes) and I'm just starting to show the threads of the claw screws. Do I have the claw screwed into the body too far? I suspect that if I use three springs with 9~42 I would have to back the claw screws out rather far . . .

[slash]

Thanks everyone. For those using three springs with 9~42 strings, how far away is your claw from the body? I am using three springs with 10~48 in a fan pattern (inner three claw hooks and outers and middle block holes) and I'm just starting to show the threads of the claw screws. Do I have the claw screwed into the body too far? I suspect that if I use three springs with 9~42 I would have to back the claw screws out rather far . . .

If the floyd is level to the body then the claw is where it needs to be.

[bfloyd6969]

If the floyd is level to the body then the claw is where it needs to be.

It is. I was asking mainly due to the fact that if I keep three springs on and change down to 9~42 guage strings, I will have to back the claw screws out quite a bit to keep the bridge level with the body.

[metalchurch79]

You will have to make minor adj. like that.
Welcome to Floatville.

Also everyone's springs might have different tension becuase of the age or diameter of them so you really can't go by that.
Every guitar is different and should be adjusted as such.
The key word: patience.
You'll get it man, just dont get frustrated. Remember to make small adjustments and keep mental note of how much so you can return if it's too much.

[bfloyd6969]

Thanks, I'll give it a go and see what happens . . .

[jdr94]

i use 5 springs regardless. nice and tight

[bfloyd6969]

i use 5 springs regardless. nice and tight

Are you using it in dive only???