Before you start to replace the strings on your locking trem guitar please take note of the following:
  
Stick with the same gauge of strings. You may change brand of string without any difficulties but if you wish to change the gauge of strings the guitar will require setting up. This may include adjusting the neck via the truss rod and adjusting the trem springs. If you are not comfortable doing this then please do not try it! You may cause irreparable damage to the neck of your guitar. Give us a call or have your guitar setup by an expert if you wish to change string gauge.

Having a Dunlop string winder and wire cutters to hand will be helpful. Alternatively go for the Planet Waves Pro-Winder that combines both!

  1. Firstly you will need to remove the old strings from your guitar. To do this loosen off the clamps at the nut of the guitar using a 3 mm allen key.
  2. The fine-tuners on the bridge should then be set to a middle position.
  3. The quickest and easiest way to change the strings is by removing them individually. Loosen them off and snip the string in the middle with a pair of string cutters.
  4. If you are restringing an Ibanez   Locking Trem then there is no need to remove the ball end off the string. If your guitar features a Floyd Rose or similar style locking trem then the ball-end will need to be snipped from the replacement string.
  5. Insert the ball end/snipped end into the saddle ensuring it is place in a central position. Tighten the screw on the saddle using the correct allen key until it is tight.
  6. Feed the other end of the guitar string under the clamp at the nut of the guitar up by the headstock.
  7. Turn the machine head until it is at a right angle to the string.
  8. Take up any remaining slack on the string and and using your finger mark about an inch and a half past the machine head. Snip the string using the string cutter at the point marked with your fingers.
  9. Feed the string through the machine head until there are a couple of millimeters poking out the other side. Pull on the string with one hand so it is under tension and  wind the string onto the machine head until it is tight.
  10. Bring the replacement string up to the correct tension and tuning.
  11. Repeat all of the steps for the remaining strings.
  12. Once the guitar is back in tune then re-tighten the clamps at the nut of the guitar.
  13. Double check the tuning of your guitar and make any necessary adjustments using the fine tuners at the bridge.