Setting a 2 point trem from scratch (uninstalled and teaching myself)

[BluesGuyJ2]

So, I've made a few threads about being blind and teaching myself how to do some basic work on guitars. I picked up a cheap Cort Strat copy for $50 and it has a cheap 2 point trem system. I took off the strings, took off the 3 springs and now am trying to reinstall the bridge and set this up to float up and down. Previously, it was setup to only dive bomb. I have not touched the height of the two post screws, nor the 2 screws for the "trem claw". How do I go about putting this back in and setting it up for full floating?

Also, I want to install locking tuners and a new nut. How do I go about determining which drop in locking tuners to use? Also, what nut/dimensions?

 

[Silence Kid]

Re: Setting a 2 point trem from scratch (uninstalled and teaching myself)

As far as floating the trem, it's easiest to "tilt" the bridge to gain up-bend capability, by unscrewing the trem spring claw somewhat; but some prefer to raise the posts instead. Only turn the posts when there is no string pressure on the bridge; I usually remove the springs/totally remove the bridge when I do this, to prevent any damage. Either way, you'll have to lower the saddle action afterward, or compensate by shimming the neck (and then intonate.) You can also try to tilt the bridge by removing a spring, instead of/in addition to releasing the claw screws, although this pre-supposes that you have greater than three springs in place (minimum for stability) and changes the feel of the trem.

 

[baritone]

Re: Setting a 2 point trem from scratch (uninstalled and teaching myself)

1. bridge height
2. trem claw
3. saddle height
4. intonation
5. repeat

I loosen the strings like crazy before I make any of these adjustments, and completely retune in between each step. It makes the process take long, but I'm not really comfortable turning a screw which has 100 lbs. of pressure on it.