Help relieve my bender anxiety

I use the tubing, I could see where not using it would cause a break. I have a 62 Custom RI with threaded rod saddles, and I have never broke a string as a result of the bender. I always use something like graphite, or some type of lube.

 

I've always used the tubing as well. If starting without a guitar the G&L ASAT Special has the easiest to use bridge, but its not going to retrofit a Tele easily.

I'm not a fan of the dual loading Wilkenson so I'd do as suggested above and use the standard, inexpensive, US reissue bridge plate, drill one top loading string hole that fits the tubing snugly, and then go with either the threaded looking early '60s type saddles or the later '60s-'70s dual grooved steel saddles. Just lube the slot every so often.

 

I've owned and used Hipshot B benders since they were new in 1983.
I use stock Fender 3 saddle bridges and plates.
I don't use the tubing, and I have never needed to modify the saddles or plate.
My solution is slightly high action, and slightly heavier strings.
Sings like a bird and sounds like a pedal steel!

 

I've tried the tubing but I found the string gradually cut into the plastic and wouldn't return to tune properly, so now I'm just running the string thru the top load hole without the tubing,. Lubed.

 

No one can answer you properly.

EACH part of your question depends on the neck angle, the break angle behind the saddles, string gage and your pick attack.

The LAST is most important. You HAVE to lighten up your attack and use your amp and guitar controls - crank the amp and drive it from the guitar. That alone will eliminate breakage.

The other factors are all interrelated and there is no answer. None. Each individual variable will change the way something else needs to be set. And a notch, or tubing, may be needed no matter what if your neck angle would require a ridiculously large shim.

You really need to have a tech familiar with B-benders look at it - and absolutely tae a look at your playing. It may need some changes.