Crayon Sky Music

How do I eliminate the vibrato on my 2008 Fender American Standard Stratocaster?

I just bought a brand new American Std. Stratocaster. I really wanted one of the new guitars with the 2-point bridge, upgraded saddles and such; however, Fender (Why? I don’t know!) has unfortunately discontinued the hardtail bridge Strat models (unless you buy a Signature model — Robert Cray or Billy Corgan…but I refuse to buy a signature model), and frankly, I’ve had enough of used, beater guitars. SOOOO…Since I can’t buy a brand new hardtail, how can I block my tremolo off, lock it down, or whatever you want to call it??? I NEVER, EVER, EVER intend to use the tremolo! I despise the “Whammy bar!”

Hello! Just remove the backplate, loosen the strings a bit, and tighten the spring claw screws all the way down. This will position the rear of the floating bridge plate flush against the body, preventing any downward movement. Depending on your string gauge and tuning, you may need to add another spring to make sure the bridge is held in place during bends or vibrato exercises. Removing the tremolo bar will then make the floating feature completely inoperable. Sounds like you feel the same way about whammy bars as I do about string trees! Let me know if I can help further. Best regards, Dana

Fender American Deluxe Strat