Blocking a Floyd Rose tremolo system is a common modification for guitarists seeking increased tuning stability, improved sustain, and a fixed bridge feel. While Floyd Rose tremolos are renowned for their expressive dive bombs and whammy bar acrobatics, they can also be a source of frustration due to their complexity and tendency to go out of tune, especially during string changes or when a string breaks. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of blocking your Floyd Rose, providing detailed steps, tips, and considerations to ensure a successful and satisfying outcome.
**Why Block a Floyd Rose Tremolo?**
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s briefly explore the reasons why you might consider blocking your Floyd Rose:
* **Tuning Stability:** Floyd Rose systems can be sensitive to changes in string tension. Blocking the tremolo significantly improves tuning stability, particularly during aggressive playing or when using alternate tunings.
* **String Changes:** Changing strings on a Floyd Rose can be a tedious and time-consuming process. Blocking the tremolo makes string changes much simpler and faster.
* **Broken Strings:** If a string breaks on a floating Floyd Rose, the entire guitar can go drastically out of tune. Blocking the tremolo mitigates this issue, keeping the other strings relatively stable.
* **Sustain:** Some players believe that blocking the tremolo increases sustain by transferring more energy to the guitar’s body.
* **Fixed Bridge Feel:** Blocking allows you to experience the feel of a fixed bridge guitar without permanently altering your instrument. This can be beneficial for players who prefer the solid feel and direct response of a fixed bridge.
* **Ease of Use:** Some guitarists find the complex setup and maintenance of a floating Floyd Rose to be daunting. Blocking simplifies the system and makes it more manageable.
**Understanding Your Floyd Rose System**
Before you begin, it’s essential to understand the basic components of your Floyd Rose tremolo:
* **Bridge Plate:** The main part of the tremolo system where the strings are anchored.
* **Saddles:** Individual components that hold the strings at the bridge plate and allow for intonation adjustment.
* **Tremolo Block:** A metal block attached to the underside of the bridge plate that connects to the tremolo springs.
* **Tremolo Springs:** Springs that connect the tremolo block to the claw inside the tremolo cavity, providing tension to counterbalance the strings.
* **Tremolo Claw:** A metal plate inside the tremolo cavity where the tremolo springs are attached. It’s adjustable to control the overall tension of the system.
* **Locking Nut:** A nut at the headstock that clamps down on the strings to prevent slippage and maintain tuning stability.
* **Fine Tuners:** Small knobs on the bridge plate that allow for precise tuning adjustments.
**Methods for Blocking a Floyd Rose**
There are several methods for blocking a Floyd Rose tremolo, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. We’ll cover the most common and effective methods:
1. **Wood Block Method (Recommended for Beginners):**
This is the most popular and easiest method for blocking a Floyd Rose. It involves using a precisely sized wood block to fill the gap between the tremolo block and the body of the guitar.
**Materials Needed:**
* **Wood Block:** A piece of hardwood (such as maple, oak, or poplar) sized to fit snugly between the tremolo block and the guitar body. The dimensions will vary depending on your guitar, but a good starting point is around 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick, and wide/tall enough to fill the space behind the tremolo block. You can purchase pre-made Floyd Rose blocking kits or cut your own block.
* **Sandpaper:** To fine-tune the fit of the wood block.
* **Screwdriver:** To adjust the tremolo claw.
* **Tuning Wrench:** For adjusting the fine tuners and locking nut.
* **Cloth or Towel:** To protect your guitar’s finish.
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
* **Step 1: Prepare Your Guitar:** Loosen the strings slightly to reduce tension on the tremolo system. Place a cloth or towel under the bridge to protect the guitar’s finish from scratches.
* **Step 2: Assess the Gap:** Carefully observe the gap between the tremolo block and the guitar body. This will determine the required thickness of your wood block. It’s better to start with a slightly oversized block and sand it down gradually for a perfect fit.
* **Step 3: Insert the Wood Block:** Place the wood block into the gap behind the tremolo block. The block should fit snugly without forcing it. If it’s too tight, carefully sand down the block until it fits properly. The goal is for the block to prevent the tremolo from moving backward (allowing you to pull up on the whammy bar) while still allowing it to sit flush against the body when the strings are tuned to pitch.
* **Step 4: Adjust Tremolo Claw Tension:** Once the block is in place, you may need to adjust the tremolo claw screws in the tremolo cavity. Tighten the screws to pull the tremolo springs tighter, effectively pulling the bridge down against the block. The goal is to have the bridge sit flush against the body when the guitar is in tune. You will likely need to adjust these screws multiple times during the tuning process.
* **Step 5: Tune the Guitar:** Tune the guitar to your desired tuning. As you tune, the tremolo system will likely shift. Continue to adjust the tremolo claw screws to maintain the desired bridge position (flush against the body). This may involve tightening or loosening the screws slightly.
* **Step 6: Fine-Tune and Lock the Nut:** Once the guitar is in tune and the bridge is flush against the body, lock the locking nut at the headstock. Use the fine tuners on the bridge to make any final tuning adjustments.
* **Step 7: Verify Stability:** Test the blocked tremolo by bending strings and playing aggressively. Check the tuning to ensure it remains stable. If the tuning drifts, re-check the block’s fit and the tremolo claw tension.
2. **Coin Method (Temporary Blocking):**
This method is a quick and temporary solution for blocking a Floyd Rose. It involves stacking coins between the tremolo block and the guitar body.
**Materials Needed:**
* **Coins:** Several coins of the same denomination (e.g., quarters, nickels). The number of coins needed will depend on the gap between the tremolo block and the guitar body.
* **Tape (Optional):** To hold the coins together and prevent them from rattling.
* **Screwdriver:** To adjust the tremolo claw.
* **Tuning Wrench:** For adjusting the fine tuners and locking nut.
* **Cloth or Towel:** To protect your guitar’s finish.
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
* **Step 1: Prepare Your Guitar:** Loosen the strings slightly to reduce tension on the tremolo system. Place a cloth or towel under the bridge to protect the guitar’s finish.
* **Step 2: Stack the Coins:** Stack the coins together to create a block that’s approximately the same thickness as the gap between the tremolo block and the guitar body. You can use tape to hold the coins together if desired.
* **Step 3: Insert the Coin Stack:** Carefully insert the stack of coins into the gap behind the tremolo block. The coins should fit snugly without forcing them.
* **Step 4: Adjust Tremolo Claw Tension:** Adjust the tremolo claw screws in the tremolo cavity to pull the tremolo springs tighter, effectively pulling the bridge down against the coin stack. The goal is to have the bridge sit flush against the body when the guitar is in tune.
* **Step 5: Tune the Guitar:** Tune the guitar to your desired tuning. As you tune, the tremolo system will likely shift. Continue to adjust the tremolo claw screws to maintain the desired bridge position (flush against the body).
* **Step 6: Fine-Tune and Lock the Nut:** Once the guitar is in tune and the bridge is flush against the body, lock the locking nut at the headstock. Use the fine tuners on the bridge to make any final tuning adjustments.
* **Step 7: Verify Stability:** Test the blocked tremolo by bending strings and playing aggressively. Check the tuning to ensure it remains stable. This method is less stable than the wood block method, so you may need to readjust the coins occasionally.
**Note:** This method is not recommended for long-term use as the coins can shift or rattle. It’s best used as a temporary solution for testing or quick fixes.
3. **Tremol-No System (Adjustable Blocking):**
The Tremol-No is a commercially available device that allows you to easily switch between a floating, dive-only, or hardtail (blocked) tremolo mode. It’s a more sophisticated and versatile solution compared to the wood block or coin methods.
**Materials Needed:**
* **Tremol-No Kit:** Purchase a Tremol-No kit that’s compatible with your Floyd Rose tremolo system.
* **Screwdrivers:** Various screwdrivers to remove and install the tremolo springs and the Tremol-No device.
* **Allen Wrenches:** May be needed for adjusting the Tremol-No components.
* **Instructions:** Follow the instructions included with the Tremol-No kit carefully.
* **Cloth or Towel:** To protect your guitar’s finish.
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
* **Step 1: Prepare Your Guitar:** Loosen the strings slightly to reduce tension on the tremolo system. Place a cloth or towel under the bridge to protect the guitar’s finish.
* **Step 2: Remove Tremolo Springs:** Carefully remove the tremolo springs from the tremolo claw and the tremolo block.
* **Step 3: Install the Tremol-No:** Follow the instructions included with the Tremol-No kit to install the device onto the tremolo block. This typically involves replacing the existing tremolo spring claw with the Tremol-No assembly. The specific installation steps will vary depending on the Tremol-No model.
* **Step 4: Reattach Tremolo Springs (Optional):** Depending on how you want to configure your Tremol-No, you may or may not need to reattach the tremolo springs. Refer to the Tremol-No instructions for details.
* **Step 5: Adjust Tremol-No Settings:** Use the adjustment screws or levers on the Tremol-No to select the desired tremolo mode: floating, dive-only, or hardtail (blocked).
* **Step 6: Tune the Guitar:** Tune the guitar to your desired tuning. The tremolo system should now be in the selected mode.
* **Step 7: Fine-Tune and Lock the Nut:** Once the guitar is in tune, lock the locking nut at the headstock. Use the fine tuners on the bridge to make any final tuning adjustments.
* **Step 8: Verify Functionality:** Test the Tremol-No by switching between the different tremolo modes. Ensure that the system is functioning correctly and that the tuning remains stable.
**Note:** The Tremol-No is a more complex solution than the wood block or coin methods, but it offers greater flexibility and control over your tremolo system.
4. **Hardtail Conversion (Permanent Blocking):**
This method involves permanently converting your Floyd Rose tremolo into a hardtail bridge. This is a more drastic measure that should only be considered if you are absolutely certain that you no longer want to use the tremolo function. It generally involves replacing the Floyd Rose with a fixed hardtail bridge.
**Materials Needed:**
* **Hardtail Bridge:** A hardtail bridge that is compatible with your guitar’s specifications (string spacing, post spacing, etc.).
* **Measuring Tools:** A ruler or calipers to measure the dimensions of your Floyd Rose tremolo and ensure that the hardtail bridge will fit properly.
* **Screwdrivers:** Various screwdrivers to remove the Floyd Rose tremolo and install the hardtail bridge.
* **Drill (Optional):** May be needed to drill new mounting holes for the hardtail bridge.
* **Wood Filler (Optional):** May be needed to fill any existing holes from the Floyd Rose tremolo.
* **Instructions:** Research and understand the hardtail conversion process for your specific guitar model.
**Step-by-Step Instructions (General Guidelines):**
* **Step 1: Prepare Your Guitar:** Loosen the strings and remove the Floyd Rose tremolo completely. This will involve removing the strings, springs, and the bridge plate itself.
* **Step 2: Measure and Prepare the Body:** Measure the dimensions of the existing Floyd Rose tremolo and compare them to the dimensions of the hardtail bridge. Determine if any modifications to the guitar body are necessary.
* **Step 3: Fill Existing Holes (Optional):** If the hardtail bridge does not cover all of the existing holes from the Floyd Rose tremolo, you may need to fill them with wood filler and sand them smooth.
* **Step 4: Drill New Mounting Holes (Optional):** If the hardtail bridge requires new mounting holes, carefully drill them into the guitar body. Use a drill press for greater accuracy.
* **Step 5: Install the Hardtail Bridge:** Install the hardtail bridge onto the guitar body using the appropriate screws.
* **Step 6: String the Guitar:** String the guitar with your desired strings.
* **Step 7: Adjust Intonation:** Adjust the intonation of the hardtail bridge to ensure that the guitar plays in tune across the fretboard.
* **Step 8: Verify Stability:** Play the guitar and check the tuning to ensure that the hardtail bridge is stable.
**Note:** This is a complex and potentially irreversible modification that should only be performed by experienced guitar technicians or luthiers. Improper installation can damage your guitar.
**Tips and Considerations for Blocking a Floyd Rose**
* **Accuracy is Key:** The success of blocking your Floyd Rose depends on the accuracy of the block’s fit. Take your time and measure carefully. It’s always better to start with a slightly oversized block and sand it down gradually.
* **Wood Selection:** For the wood block method, choose a dense hardwood like maple, oak, or poplar. Avoid softwoods like pine, as they may compress over time.
* **Tremolo Claw Adjustment:** Adjusting the tremolo claw screws is crucial for achieving the desired bridge position and tuning stability. Be patient and make small adjustments.
* **String Gauge:** If you change string gauges after blocking your Floyd Rose, you may need to readjust the tremolo claw tension to compensate for the change in string tension.
* **Professional Help:** If you’re not comfortable performing these modifications yourself, consult a qualified guitar technician or luthier. They can ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.
* **Reversibility:** Most of these methods, with the exception of the hardtail conversion, are reversible. You can always remove the block or Tremol-No and restore your Floyd Rose to its original floating configuration.
* **Intonation:** Blocking your Floyd Rose can affect the intonation of your guitar. Be sure to check and adjust the intonation after blocking the tremolo.
* **Experimentation:** Experiment with different blocking methods and materials to find what works best for you and your guitar.
* **Consider the Angle:** The wood block can be cut at a very slight angle to make sure it really is pushing the tremolo tight against the body. Too much of an angle can cause issues, but a minor adjustment of a few degrees can improve contact.
* **Protect the Finish:** Always use a cloth or towel to protect your guitar’s finish from scratches during the blocking process.
* **Locking Nut Maintenance:** Even with a blocked Floyd Rose, it’s important to maintain the locking nut. Keep the screws tightened and lubricate them occasionally to prevent stripping.
**Conclusion**
Blocking a Floyd Rose tremolo can be a worthwhile modification for guitarists seeking improved tuning stability, simplified maintenance, and a fixed bridge feel. By following the detailed steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can successfully block your Floyd Rose and enjoy the benefits of a more stable and predictable playing experience. Remember to take your time, be patient, and consult a professional if you’re unsure about any aspect of the process. With a little effort, you can transform your Floyd Rose-equipped guitar into a versatile and reliable instrument that meets your specific playing needs. While dive bombs are fun, sometimes a solid, stable guitar is exactly what you need to bring your musical vision to life. Consider your playing style and musical needs carefully before deciding if blocking your Floyd Rose is the right choice for you.