Tele Bridge PUP replacement question

[geddyleedog]

I'm hoping I'm missing something very obvious but I don't think I am. I'm going to replace my bridge pup. It seems that in order to do that I have to remove the bridgeplate. And in order to remove the bridgeplate I have to remove at least 3 of the saddles in order to get to the bridgeplate screws. Is this correct? Again, it seems like that's the only way to do it, but it seems like there should be an easier way. After I remove the saddles I know it will be a pain to get the intonation back. Thanks in advance for any feedback you can give.

[Kevin]

I guess you've got a six saddle bridge?

Sometimes you can slide the saddles to the side enough to get a screwdriver in there. If not, get a good 6" metal ruler with increments in 1/64". Measure the distance from the back of the bridge to the front (or back; it doesn't matter) of each saddle. Measure it about three times for consistency and write the measurement down. Then when you reassemble, you can get the saddles very close to the proper position before you ever put the strings on.

Expect to make some minor adjustments, though.

[aln413]

if ya wanna do it right you definately gotta remove the saddles(only 3),i did just whats described above.also theres a site that will help you fine tune the intonation,i think its gear head .com .i found it by searching on google under telecaster intonation.its pretty easy!!!