ESP LTD EC401FM: Tune-o-Matic Suckage

[dooredge]

Hi,

I bought a ESP LTD EC401FM a few months back and am just now getting around to checking the intonation etc. In doing so I've discovered the stock TOM is a p.o.s.

I'm guessing this a not a Gotoh or TonePros TOM because it's horrendous. When attempting to adjust the screws to move the saddles, the saddles stay stationary until the screws can move no futher (when adjusting clockwise). When turning the screw counter clockwise, the same happens. Saddle stay stationary and eventually I can remove the screw from the TOM.

Which way should I go? Gotoh or TonePros? Small or large post? I also see the issue of string spacing. Warmoth shows a string spacing of 2-3/64" on both the Gotoh & TonePros; is this standard string spacing on most 6 string guitars? Just want to make sure I get it right the 1st time around when ordering.

Thanks for any help!


http://www.espguitars.com/guitars/ltd-guitar/ec-401fm.html

http://www.warmoth.com/Gotoh-Tune-O-Matic-Bridge-Black-P606C710.aspx

http://www.warmoth.com/Tone-Pros-Tune-o-Matic-Black-P562C711.aspx

 

[nwright]

Most of the bridges for LTD's are SIC branded on the bottom...Pretty crappy. Although on the ones I've owned theyve intonated OK. Replacing them with GOTOH's made a tonal difference for the better.

As for the posts, I would imagine large or small would be dependent on the existing screw holes in the guitar?

GOTOH's have always been an easy swap for me. The Tonepros stuff is made by GOTOH, so the only difference would be the set screw and whether or not you feel it is necessary.

 

[BeZo]

I did a setup on an EC 1000 where the bridge was eroded as if it was made of chocolate and it melted when he palm muted. It was garbage. I gave it back to him, and did the best I could, but told him to get a new bridge and I could do better. There is no reason for a bridge to erode like that. It was nuts.

Then again, this guy works in a pizza shop (if you can believe that, a guitar player delivering pizzas!), and lives off the scraps. Perhaps he sweats the acid from the pizza sauce.

Either way, I would put a new bridge on it, and limit your pizza intake. That's my best advise.

 

[Mizati20]

Are you trying to adjust the saddles with the strings on them? That's tough regardless of the brand... take the string off and while turning the screw guide it forward or backward with your fingernail... that will definitely help...

 

[dooredge]

I got it intonated, finally. I took your advice Mr. Mizati. Good enough until the Gotoh goods get here (I took a gamble & ordered stuff from Warmoth with hopes it'll all be a direct fit).

When I did my Gibson LP last week I didn't have to loosen the strings. Everything went into place like butter. Not so with the LTD.

The most important advice though that I will take to heart is from BeZo!

 

[Mizati20]

I got it intonated, finally. I took your advice Mr. Mizati. Good enough until the Gotoh goods get here (I took a gamble & ordered stuff from Warmoth with hopes it'll all be a direct fit).

When I did my Gibson LP last week I didn't have to loosen the strings. Everything went into place like butter. Not so with the LTD.

The most important advice though that I will take to heart is from BeZo!

I'll be perfectly honest even with the best bridge and tailpieces I've always had a difficult time moving the saddles at full string tension... regardless it's not good for the saddles or the screws, you have to remember strings are "ribbed" so to speak... and are going to catch on the sharp end of the saddles, which is a big part of why they are difficult to move...

...in any case glad I could help!