Fitting strings
 

What is best way to insure strings are not too long? I have has strings especially at the B or E break because the top taper is not long enough to prevent the main part of the string to coil around the tuning post and snap the core. Then the string just unravels.
Ugh.
How do I prevent this when buying string sets?
I do know the scale lengths and my basses are 34 or 35"

I use a method I once read in an old BP magazine - after you run the string through the bridge and across the neck, measure about four inches past the tuning post. Bend the string at a right angle so that the windings don't unravel, and then cut it off.

That method has never caused me any problems, but you'll probably hear lots of varying opinions. There is no one "correct" method to fit strings properly.

Measure from the nut to the twelfth fret and double it. That's your scale length.

I've found a lot of stores will stock Long+ strings that can accommodate 34" and 35" and longer scales instead of plain old Long scale which might be a better fit for your bass.

Might not be the whole story but it never hurts to check.

I don't understand the description of the problem. There are many discussions of proper string installation. (Hint: SEARCH.)

Bottom line for me: you should leave enough string to have 3-4 wraps around the tuning peg. More isn't needed.

As described above, I run each string through the bridge, lay it out on the bass, then cut each string about 4 finger-widths past the tuner it will be installed on. Bend the string end 90 degrees and stick that bent section in the center hole of the tuner post. This secures the string and prevents it slipping on the tuner.

Wrap the string from the top down, using the first wrap around the tuner post to lock the string in place. Wind downwards to get a better break angle over the nut.

If a string breaks after that, it's either a bad string or something damaged it.

I read it as not a trimming before winding issue but as the taper on the thick strings runs all the way onto the post, causing the string to come apart for him.

I think what OP is saying is that the full thickness of the string goes too far past the nut and winds on the peg causing it to break. I remember when I used DR's this would be an occasional problem.

What kind of strings are you using?

Yes. This.

Yes, this. Has happened 2 or 3 times. Last time Labella tapewound on the E,

Here is the winding lengths for most string manufacturers:
http://www.bassstringsonline.com/Bas...r_ep_47-1.html

Make a mark on your existing string, right past the nut. Remove string, measure from ball to your mark and that's the minimum winding length you need. Mark it right close to the tuner if you want to see how long would be too long.

35.5" is just past the nut with 37" right at the tuner post. Does this mean all I should put on this bass be TI strings? They are the only one on that list that matches 35.5".
Thanks for that list btw, mmbongo.

There are a lot of brands on that list that would work.

You're welcome!

Your 35.5" is just the minimum you need. Anything between that and a hair over 37" would be ideal.

ok. Great info here. Thanks.!!! :O)

Labella has extra long scale tapes = 38" as opposed to long scale = "37. I believe an old extra long E is what broke. The 37" has been strung and works just fine. Thanks for the help y'all.