Installing new bridge, and I need some help

[mr_goodbomb]

So, I have an old partsocaster (was a Nelsonic tele, I've replaced everything but the body, neck, and strap buttons) that needs a new bridge...

And by "needs a new bridge," I mean that I put an upgrade bridge on it, using the original screws... and it's:

1. Blatantly crooked, and
2. Too far down on the body. The top of the bridge meets the pickguard, and in order to intonate, the saddles have to be as low as possible (to the point of cutting the springs to give more room), which... Sort of sucks.

So, I need to drill new holes. How do I do this best to insure it'll be straight?

Thanks, guys. You're the best! I keep coming here with all my random tele questions because, well, you know teles, and that's more than I can say about some other forums. I don't have a drill press, mind you.

[mr_goodbomb]

No one?

[Nick JD]

1.) remove bridge and set saddles to the front of their reach

2.) get two pieces of string

3.) string up the E and the e strings so they lay over the 21st fret evenly

4.) tape the bridge to the body with masking tape so the saddles are 25.5" from the nut face

5.) check the strings are in the right place

6.) mark holes and predrill

Hopefully your pup route allows this. If your new holes are right next to your old holes then you'll need to fill the old ones first. Is it a string through?

You'll find you don't need to bump a thread if you include pictures and an exact description of both the problem, and your desired outcome.

[mr_goodbomb]

Thanks. I'll give this a try. I filled in the old holes with toothpicks and glue. I hope that'll do at least somewhat.

[Colt W. Knight]

What part of WV are you in? I have a ferrule block jig I made that ensures string through holes are drilled straight.

[mr_goodbomb]

The Eastern Panhandle.

[iansmitchell]

Good luck!

[Colt W. Knight]

Well thats a bit of jaunt from South Charleston.