Easiest way to replace MIM string guide with the US version?

Is it as simple as using the same screw hole and just adding a dimple or is more required to do the job properly?

Damfino. Try it and see what you get. Isn't the US string tree a little higher off the headstock than the MIM version?

I'd try it first without dimpling the wood and see if it works that way. If so, you've done nothing irreversible. And yes, I'd use the same screw hole.

Yes, it's just as simple as you thought... I did just that on a MIM Strat... I used the existing hole; I had to drill a hole for the alignment "nub" - that was a non-issue. Looks and works just it was stock. No need to over-think it :mrgreen:

Take photos & post them showing the steps, or challenges involved. :mrgreen:

Unfortunately, most of the DIY step-by-step photos that appear on these forums are once/year during the build contests. :sad: Point-auto focus-shoot & upload, that's the simplicity of photography these days...

Maybe the OP will do that...

But, seriously it is just this:

1. Remove old tree.
2. Place new AS tree over screw hole and insert screw.
3. Tighten down just enough to hold it on.
4. Orient tree so strings are passing through and tree is aligned.
5. Press down on tree, so the nub makes a dent in the headstock.
6. Remove tree.
7. Drill tiny hole in the dent, just deep enough for nub to sit inside.
8. Install tree and tighten screw.
9. Go play the **** out of it!

If you don't want to drill a hole for the nub, file it off the tree before installing.

Thanks for the list of steps!

There's another option that I used when I put an AS tree on a MIM. I put the AS tree in a clamp and carefully ground off the nub with a file. Didn't take all that long. Then no need for drilling in the headstock, if I ever wanted to unload the guitar and put it back completely stock I wouldn't have a mystery pit by the butterfly tree. And it holds on just fine, no issues with not being straight... it still has a screw to hold it down, after all. :grin:

I bought roller trees with no nubs. Have them now on 3 of my mims.