2004 MIM stratocaster upgrades

[platybossguitar]

Hello everyone, first time posting here.

I have a question regarding 2004 MIM stratocaster. I've heard that somewhere around 2006 Fender started to make updated models of MIM which have bigger tremblock as well as bigger frets. Is anything else changed through the years except for electronics (when comparing to new Player strat..)?

If I would like to upgrade the whole bridge system and put some new tuners, how do I know which bridge (with tremblock) would fit to older standard MIM? Also, does the new Fender locking tuners have same size mounting holes? Thanks in advance.

-Markus

 

[schmee]

The MIM you have MAY have ceramic pickups. A set of pickups like Tex Mex or etc that are not expensive is a big improvement.
My early MIM Strat has those paralleligram shaped tuners but they were fine. My guess is your tuners are also fine.

Nothing wrong with the MIM bridge itself. If you have a small trem block you can get one that fits your bridge. First measure the string spacing. It is probably 2.06 = 2-1/16. So you buy a trem block with that width that also has the mounting screw spacing you need. (3 screws) I put a Callaham full block on my 98 MIM. But basically if you want an entire bridge get the same string spacing you have. I have not found the block size to be a game changer, but not a bad thing. A Callaham block's biggest benefit is the arm is secure and not wobbly/loose. This chart may help:

 

[platybossguitar]

View attachment 1084796

Wow, this is really helpful. Thanks!

 

[sjtalon]

1/2006 upgrade- shielded body cavities (paint)

 

[Tarkus60]

Guitar Tuner Upgrade Kit for 6 Inline Headstocks (10mm Post Hole)

Grip-Lock™ Open Dimensions Classic Open Dimensions Instructions Grip-Lock™ Closed Dimensions Classic Closed Dimensions UMP™ Dimensions Give your guitar a killer look and improve your tuning stability at the same time with the Hipshot® Tuner Upgrade Kit for 6 Inline headstocks. Whether you want...

hipshotproducts.com

I use these on squires that have a different screw placement for regular fender locking tuners. I also put them on my 1992 MiM telecaster the screw hole were different and i did not want to drill new holes. Just my 2 cents.
Ebay is the cheapest place to buy them.