Lapping bridge

[swarfrat]

Trying to chase down microphonics (and swapping the 3 saddle for a modern six saddle), I decided to lap the bridge and see where it was. I have a clear 1/8" or so all the way around (might not look like it on one spot but its a trick of lighting)

My intuition says that if its dead nuts sandpaper on glass on mdf flat all the way around, that may be preferable to flat in the middle. I realize it will deflect some theoretical minute amount under load but ... a cup should seat more solidly that a perfectly flat surface against one that isn't.

Anyone ever tried this before? Is it good enough or am I just getting started? Its not a chisel.

 

[Old Deaf Roadie]

I entertain a notion that more surface to surface contact is preferable in most instances, but have never considered the bottom profile of the bridge on an electric guitar, especially if seasonal changes to the wood is a factor. I am happy enough if it is not rocking on a corner.

 

[swarfrat]

I'm inclined to call it good based on 1) its probably chasing the wind anyway, and 2) side to side might not matter much but having some longitudinal cup might make it flatten under string pressure instead of bowing up it it flattens against a bump short of the end.

I'm pretty sure my microphonics are from the screws bottoming out but if I'm going in there I only want to do this once.

The tele bridge is a bit of a diving board, with the screws only at one end and a suspended mass at the other.

 

[Peegoo]

@swarfrat

You are waaaay overthinking this. It's a metal plate on wood; it's not a gasket surface.

If you suspect the plate is resonating, lock it down with two tiny screws in the front corners, like this. The screws used for classic Kluson-type tuners are perfect for this.

 

[swarfrat]

Yeah.. impressionable youngster (at least around here, a bit of salt n pepper doesn't far on this forum). But i did get the idea here

 

[Ronkirn]

Flat doesn't matter due to the placement of the mounting screws.. they produce a cantilevered effect which produces less pressure on the leading edge of the bridge.... Use Peegoo's method. It;'s the only real solution.