How to fix tuning issues with tremolo bar usage ?

[kruser]

Would a new spring in the tremolo plate fix the problem of when pulling up on the whammy bar of my Squier Mascis JM the strings go out of tune when I let go of the whammy bar? When I bend downwards on the bar it is fine, but when I bend upwards and let go the strings go sharp. Would a new spring help? I don't want to buy a new tremolo unit if I don't have to. Suggestions? Thanks

[solfege]

Would a new spring in the tremolo plate fix the problem of when pulling up on the whammy bar of my Squier Mascis JM the strings go out of tune when I let go of the whammy bar? When I bend downwards on the bar it is fine, but when I bend upwards and let go the strings go sharp. Would a new spring help? I don't want to buy a new tremolo unit if I don't have to. Suggestions? Thanks

My guess would be that your problem is at the nut.

[hwestman]

As solfege said: a nut where the strings cannot run freely can cause tuning problems.
Make sure the notches don't pinch the strings, are smooth and lubricated.

Other sources of poor tuning are strings poorly installed on the tuning pegs and strings not stretched.

I have had problem with the plate where the strings are anchored not having a correct bend.

But my guess is that the spring is the least of your problems.

[Burgundy Mist]

I've found I can totally alleviate any issues from trem bar useage but lubing all the points of contact between the string and guitar.

Next time you take the strings off, cut an old one off about 2 inches from the ball. Dip the tip of the cut-off string into some lube and apply to the bridge saddles, string holes, nut, tuner pegs, string trees - every point of contact.

[Telliot]

It sounds like it's an improperly cut nut. I'd take it to someone who knows what they're doing and make sure the slots open toward the tuners to avoid any binding. This minimizes contact with the strings, and alleviates any binding issues as the string changes angle en route to the tuner. String winds around the tuners and the spring are both things that should be properly done as well, but none of that should leave your guitar sharp when you pull up on the trem -- that sounds like the strings are getting caught in the nut slots.

[aliendawg]

Nice tips! Any recommendations on what lub to use?

[Telliot]

Nice tips! Any recommendations on what lub to use?

To be honest, I never need any lube. Once I got the nut cut properly, my tuning has been rock solid. I'll try and take a couple pics of my JM today to show everyone how it's cut.

[aliendawg]

Cool! I'm waiting for my trem bar to arrive but I can already see I'm going to have some problems with the nut

[Telliot]

Here’s what I’m trying to describe. It’s fixed all my tuning issues.

[aliendawg]

Ooh!Thank you!

I get it now. I tried doing something similar before, i'd rub a thicker string on the slots to try and open the slots a bit more but I noticed I was digging it deeper and not wider so I stopped it.

Did you do it yourself? Anywhere I can find tutorials? Because it looks like something easy to mess up

[oid]

Here’s what I’m trying to describe. It’s fixed all my tuning issues.

Wow, never seen that much relief put in! Generally you can barely see it and only if you look for it. Guess your luthier wants to make sure it is seen!

[Telliot]

Did you do it yourself?

NOOOOO!!!

I'm pretty hands-on, and comfortable doing most things on my guitars, but for things like this or fretwork I go to a local luthier who does amazing work. Incidentally, this guitar (1966 JM) needed a refret and had a hump in the fingerboard that needed to be planed down. He did all that for me years ago and it's been a perfect guitar since. He done work on most of my guitars over the years.

Here’s what I’m trying to describe. It’s fixed all my tuning issues.

Wow, never seen that much relief put in! Generally you can barely see it and only if you look for it. Guess your luthier wants to make sure it is seen!

I know. I was shocked the first time I saw it, but I can't fault the results. I'm a believer now. Obviously it could be toned down, but I don't mind the look.

[ludobag1]

a good nut is for 90 % of the tuning issue,string mount also
i do this also in my nuts but really less
one thing also the nut slot must be angle to the headstock for avoiding citarising
my jazzmasters stay perfectly in tune with the big usage of the bar i use ;hopefully
normally if the trem bar cause tuning trouble, bending also will do the same
i just put some graphite pen in slot sometimes to lubrificate