How To Thread Bridge Saddles On A Guitar

You need to learn how to thread bridge saddles on an electric guitar. Usually, saddles need to be replaced and threaded when they are broken, being upgraded, or as part of an electric guitar-building project. This article will show you the way to successfully thread a bridge saddle.

1. Make sure you have a matching bridge. There are two main types, the removable bridge and the bolted-on and/or string through body bridge. The saddles for each are made differently and you will need to thread them differently.
2. Remove the first old saddle if present. At the back of the bridge, you will find screws holding the saddles in place. Use a small Phillips screwdriver to remove these by turning counter-clockwise until the screw threads come free of the guitar saddle. If there are springs on the screws, make sure that they don't pop off and roll away. Note the position of the saddles and the springs. Many electric guitar bridges have springs.
3. Install the new saddle.  Place the new saddle where the old one was, and turn the screwdriver clockwise until the screw is holding the saddle. In the case of those with springs, you will need to place the spring between saddle and screw head before tightening. Thread the screw until the new saddle is in the same place as the old. Electric guitars usually have one string to a saddle, so that the intonation can be adjusted for each string. Height is also important.. As the Guitar Repair Shop tell us, 'measure at the 12th fret so the height between the bottom of the low E string and the top of the 12th fret is a bit over 2/32".
4. Repeat with the other five.  Remove the other saddles one at a time and thread the new saddles on. Tune your electric guitar, and check the intonation. If there are sharps or flats, adjust the screws until the sound is right.

Now you know how to thread a bridge saddle on an electric guitar. With practice, the process will seem easier each time.