| I'll usually measure from the 12th fret to the longest and shortest saddle as set for intonation, split the difference and add that to the shortest (gives average length). Then set the saddles in the new bridge to the middle of the adjustment (confirm that there is indeed enough adjustment for hi/lo).
Remove existing bridge and strings. Set the bridge in position with measurements to the 12th and adjusted saddles. Then I'll put a piece of masking tape on the neck side for location.
Next I like to take a piece of heavy fishing line, bringing it through the E & G groves (4 string) of the new bridge and run it up the neck and through the nut and tie off with elastic bands to the tuners. This will help keep the strings snug but still allow for positioning.
Then mask the whole bridge area. Pull the bridge back to the first tape that measures length, and position side to side for strings location on neck and mark both sides for location.
Undo string, reposition new bridge and mark hole location. Remove bridge see if you're too close to an existing hole and for me if it's within 1/4 inch I'll sand a 1/8" dowel piece and plug the hole using "Carpenter's Wood Glue". After it's dried cut / sand it flush (Dremal sure is handy).
Sand the underside of the bridge in the area that the ground attaches for a good clean contact.
Then simply drill pilot holes and install the new bridge.
I've had good results with the above method, but there's always more than 1 way to skin a cat.
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My only fear is that when I'm dead and gone, my wife will sell all my toys for what I said I paid for them!
Last edited by Brass Nut : 03-15-2007 at 08:30 AM.
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