Block A Floyd Rose: Easy Guide For Guitarists

by Marta Kowalska 46 views

Hey there, fellow guitar enthusiasts! Ever found yourself wrestling with your Floyd Rose tremolo system? These ingenious devices allow for some seriously expressive playing, from subtle vibrato to wild dive bombs. But let's face it, they can also be a bit of a headache sometimes, especially when it comes to tuning stability or changing tunings. That's where blocking your Floyd Rose comes in. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about blocking your tremolo, why you might want to do it, and how to do it safely and effectively.

Understanding the Floyd Rose Tremolo System

Before we dive into the how-to, let's quickly recap what a Floyd Rose tremolo is and how it works. The Floyd Rose is a type of double-locking tremolo system, meaning it locks the strings at both the bridge and the nut. This locking mechanism is what gives it its incredible tuning stability, even under extreme tremolo use. However, this complexity also means that changing tunings or even just restringing your guitar can be more involved than with a traditional tremolo or hardtail bridge. The system works by balancing the string tension with the tension of the tremolo springs in the back of the guitar. This delicate balance is what allows the bridge to float, enabling both upward and downward pitch bends. When you block a Floyd Rose, you essentially eliminate this floating action, turning it into a fixed bridge. This can have several benefits, which we'll discuss next.

Why Block a Floyd Rose Tremolo?

So, why would you want to block a system designed for such expressive playing? There are several compelling reasons:

  • Improved Tuning Stability: This is arguably the biggest reason. Blocking your Floyd Rose essentially turns it into a hardtail bridge. This drastically improves tuning stability, especially if you break a string. With a floating tremolo, breaking a string throws the entire system out of whack, making the other strings go out of tune. Blocking prevents this.
  • Easier Tuning Changes: Changing tunings on a Floyd Rose can be a real pain. Because of the floating design, adjusting one string's tuning affects the tension on the others. Blocking the tremolo eliminates this issue, making it much simpler to switch between tunings.
  • Simplified Restringing: Restringing a Floyd Rose can be a bit of a juggling act. You need to maintain the tension on the tremolo springs while threading the strings through the bridge. Blocking makes this process significantly easier.
  • Experimenting with Different Playing Styles: Some players prefer the feel and sustain of a hardtail guitar. Blocking your Floyd Rose allows you to experience this without having to buy a new instrument. It can also be beneficial if you primarily play rhythm guitar and don't use the tremolo much.
  • Fixing a Sinking Tremolo: If your tremolo is constantly sinking (the bridge sits too low against the body), blocking it can be a temporary solution while you troubleshoot the underlying issue, such as weak or improperly adjusted tremolo springs.

Methods for Blocking a Floyd Rose

Alright, so you're convinced that blocking your Floyd Rose might be a good idea. Now, let's talk about how to do it. There are a few different methods you can use, each with its own pros and cons.

1. The Wood Block Method

This is probably the most common and straightforward method. It involves using a block of wood (or other suitable material) to physically prevent the tremolo from moving.

  • What you'll need:

    • A block of wood (basswood, maple, or even a stack of pennies wrapped in tape work well)
    • A screwdriver
    • Possibly some shims (thin pieces of wood or cardboard) for fine-tuning the fit

  • How to do it:

    1. Loosen the strings: You don't need to completely remove them, but loosen them enough so there's minimal tension on the bridge.
    2. Adjust the tremolo springs: You'll need to tighten or loosen the tremolo claw screws in the back of the guitar to get the bridge sitting level with the body. This is crucial for ensuring the block fits snugly.
    3. Measure the gap: Measure the distance between the tremolo block and the body of the guitar. This will determine the size of the block you need.
    4. Cut or find a suitable block: Cut a block of wood (or use your stack of pennies) that's slightly larger than the gap you measured. You want a snug fit, but not so tight that you're forcing it in.
    5. Insert the block: Carefully insert the block into the gap between the tremolo block and the body. It should fit snugly and prevent the tremolo from moving forward.
    6. Fine-tune the fit: If the block is too loose, you can add shims (thin pieces of wood or cardboard) to fill the gap. If it's too tight, you can sand it down slightly.
    7. Tune the guitar: Once the block is in place, tune your guitar to your desired tuning. The block should hold the tremolo steady.

2. The Tremol-No System

The Tremol-No is a commercially available device specifically designed for blocking Floyd Rose tremolos. It's a more sophisticated solution than the wood block method, offering greater flexibility and control.

  • What you'll need:

    • A Tremol-No kit (available online or at most guitar stores)
    • A screwdriver
    • Possibly some basic tools for disassembling and reassembling the tremolo system (depending on your guitar model)

  • How to do it:

    1. Installation: The Tremol-No replaces the tremolo claw in the back of your guitar. Installation typically involves removing the strings, tremolo springs, and tremolo claw, and then installing the Tremol-No in its place. The exact installation procedure will vary depending on your guitar model, so it's essential to follow the instructions that come with the Tremol-No kit. Many helpful videos are available online that guide you through the process.
    2. Operation: Once installed, the Tremol-No allows you to easily switch between three modes: floating, dive-only, and hardtail (blocked). This is done by tightening or loosening screws on the device. This flexibility is a major advantage of the Tremol-No over the wood block method.

3. The Coin Method (Temporary Block)

This is a quick and dirty method for temporarily blocking your tremolo. It's not as stable or reliable as the wood block or Tremol-No, but it can be useful in a pinch.

  • What you'll need:

    • Coins (usually pennies or quarters)
    • Tape (masking tape or electrical tape)

  • How to do it:

    1. Loosen the strings: As with the wood block method, loosen the strings to reduce tension on the bridge.
    2. Adjust the tremolo springs: Adjust the tremolo claw screws to get the bridge sitting level with the body.
    3. Stack the coins: Stack the coins together and wrap them tightly with tape. This creates a makeshift block.
    4. Insert the coin stack: Insert the coin stack into the gap between the tremolo block and the body. You may need to experiment with the number of coins to get a snug fit.
    5. Tune the guitar: Tune your guitar to your desired tuning. Be aware that the coin stack may shift or fall out, so this is not a long-term solution.

Step-by-Step Guide to Blocking a Floyd Rose with a Wood Block

Let's break down the wood block method in more detail. This is a reliable and cost-effective way to block your Floyd Rose tremolo.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. This includes:

  • A block of wood: Basswood or maple are good choices, but you can also use other hardwoods. The size of the block will depend on the gap between your tremolo block and the body of your guitar. A good starting point is a block that's about 1 inch thick, 1.5 inches wide, and 2 inches long. You can always trim it down if it's too big.
  • A screwdriver: You'll need a screwdriver to adjust the tremolo claw screws in the back of your guitar.
  • A ruler or measuring tape: This will help you measure the gap between the tremolo block and the body.
  • Sandpaper (optional): If your block is too tight, you can use sandpaper to smooth it down.
  • Shims (optional): Thin pieces of wood or cardboard can be used to fine-tune the fit of the block.

Step 2: Loosen the Strings

Use your tuning pegs to loosen the strings. You don't need to remove them completely, but you want to reduce the tension on the bridge so it's easier to work with.

Step 3: Adjust the Tremolo Springs

Turn your guitar over and locate the tremolo cavity on the back. Inside, you'll see the tremolo springs and the tremolo claw. The tremolo claw is held in place by two screws. By tightening or loosening these screws, you can adjust the tension of the springs. The goal is to get the bridge sitting level with the body of the guitar. This is crucial for ensuring the block fits snugly.

  • If the bridge is sitting too low: Tighten the tremolo claw screws (turn them clockwise). This will pull the claw closer to the body and increase the spring tension, raising the bridge.
  • If the bridge is sitting too high: Loosen the tremolo claw screws (turn them counterclockwise). This will allow the claw to move further away from the body and decrease the spring tension, lowering the bridge.

Make small adjustments and check the bridge position after each adjustment. It may take a few tries to get it just right.

Step 4: Measure the Gap

Once the bridge is level with the body, measure the distance between the tremolo block (the metal block that the strings attach to) and the body of the guitar. This measurement will determine the size of the wood block you need.

Step 5: Cut or Find a Suitable Block

If you're cutting your own block of wood, use the measurement you took in the previous step as a guide. It's better to start with a block that's slightly larger than the gap and then sand it down if necessary. If you're using a pre-cut block, make sure it's the right size.

Step 6: Insert the Block

Carefully insert the block into the gap between the tremolo block and the body. It should fit snugly and prevent the tremolo from moving forward. If it's too tight, don't force it. Sand it down slightly and try again.

Step 7: Fine-Tune the Fit

If the block is too loose, you can add shims to fill the gap. Thin pieces of wood or cardboard work well for this. If it's still too tight, sand it down some more.

Step 8: Tune the Guitar

Once the block is in place, tune your guitar to your desired tuning. The block should hold the tremolo steady. If you notice the block shifting or falling out, you may need to adjust the fit or use a different blocking method.

Tips and Tricks for Blocking a Floyd Rose

  • Use the right materials: The type of wood you use for your block can affect the tone of your guitar. Hardwoods like maple will generally provide more sustain and clarity, while softer woods like basswood will provide a warmer tone. Experiment to see what sounds best to you.
  • Get a snug fit: The block should fit snugly between the tremolo block and the body. This will prevent it from shifting or falling out and ensure that the tremolo is effectively blocked.
  • Don't force it: If the block is too tight, don't force it in. You could damage your guitar. Instead, sand it down slightly and try again.
  • Consider a Tremol-No: If you want a more flexible and reliable solution for blocking your Floyd Rose, the Tremol-No is a great option. It allows you to easily switch between floating, dive-only, and hardtail modes.
  • Watch videos: There are many helpful videos online that demonstrate how to block a Floyd Rose tremolo. Watching these videos can be a great way to learn the process and avoid common mistakes.

Potential Issues and Troubleshooting

While blocking a Floyd Rose is generally a straightforward process, there are a few potential issues you might encounter:

  • Block is too tight: If the block is too tight, it can put stress on the tremolo system and potentially damage your guitar. If this happens, remove the block and sand it down slightly.
  • Block is too loose: If the block is too loose, it won't effectively block the tremolo. If this happens, add shims or use a larger block.
  • Block shifts or falls out: If the block shifts or falls out, it's not doing its job. This can happen if the block is too loose or if it's not properly positioned. Make sure the block fits snugly and is securely in place.
  • Tuning instability: Even with a blocked tremolo, you might still experience some tuning instability. This can be caused by other factors, such as worn strings, a poorly cut nut, or loose tuning pegs. If you're experiencing tuning problems, check these other components as well.

Is Blocking a Floyd Rose Right for You?

Blocking a Floyd Rose tremolo can be a great solution for guitarists who want improved tuning stability, easier tuning changes, or a hardtail feel. However, it's not the right choice for everyone. If you rely heavily on the tremolo for your playing style, blocking it will obviously limit your expressive capabilities. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to block your Floyd Rose comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Experiment with different methods and see what works best for you.

Conclusion

Blocking a Floyd Rose tremolo is a relatively simple process that can have a significant impact on your guitar's performance and playability. Whether you choose the wood block method, the Tremol-No system, or the coin method, blocking your tremolo can offer a range of benefits, from improved tuning stability to easier tuning changes. By understanding the different methods and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently block your Floyd Rose and enjoy the advantages of a hardtail guitar. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how it transforms your playing experience! And hey, if you have any questions or tips of your own, feel free to share them in the comments below. Happy playing, guys!