Fitting strings into the bridge

[Superpang]

I have recently purchase a 135 gauge B string but it won't go in cleanly into the bridge and part of the metal stuff stick out including the ball. Is there someway to get it in? Thanks

[PilbaraBass]

Originally Posted by Superpang

I have recently purchase a 135 gauge B string but it won't go in cleanly into the bridge and part of the metal stuff stick out including the ball. Is there someway to get it in? Thanks

how much do you value your bridge?

I had a similar issue on a cheapo of mine, when I went to convert it to a BEAD tuning....the .130 wouldn't even start to go in the hole...I used a round file and made the hole bigger...10 minutes later...I got BEAD, Baby!

[Superpang]

hmm is the conklin gt5 bridge any good ? or must it be sanded

[62bass]

You can drill the hole slightly larger to make it fit. Be careful and don't go overboard with too lrge a drill bit. I've done this on a few basses, both on the bridge and tuning peg and it's worked out fine. I don't know anything about the Conklin bridge though. You can just take a look and see how it needs to be done.

You don have to be careful with a soft brass bridge. A drill bit goes through that like butter. Anyhow, use an electric drill with variable speed and run it slow so you can control it. Test the hole size in scrap metal first. It shouldn't be any problem.

[202dy]

Originally Posted by 62bass

You can drill the hole slightly larger to make it fit. Be careful and don't go overboard with too large a drill bit. I've done this on a few basses, both on the bridge and tuning peg and it's worked out fine. I don't know anything about the Conklin bridge though. You can just take a look and see how it needs to be done.

You don have to be careful with a soft brass bridge. A drill bit goes through that like butter. Anyhow, use an electric drill with variable speed and run it slow so you can control it. Test the hole size in scrap metal first. It shouldn't be any problem.

+1.

Choosing the first bit size is critical. If you have a complete drill index it vastly simplified but even with a small choice of bit sizes it can be done safely. Begin by fitting loose bits to the hole. Find the one that just fits or is largest that fits in the hole. Choose the next size up as your first bit even if it is not large enough to permit the string to seat properly. Working slowly and carefully, allow this bit to follow the hole. Then change the bit, moving up one bit at at time until the hole is the size you need.

BTW, is the hole in your bridge countersunk?