Squier Strat Guitar Tuner Replacement

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Introduction

This guide will go over replacing a Fender Squier Stratocaster standard tuner. Typically, a loose tuner will cause tuning issues, and can render the guitar unplayable. Typically, when a tuner is unable to remain tight and keep a string in tune, it is time to replace it. It is, in some cases, possible to repair a loose or broken tuner, however that is outside of the scope of this guide.

* If you are replacing the standard Fender Squier Stratocaster tuner with an aftermarket, or different Fender tuner model, this guide may not be applicable due to variance in tuner mechanisms and styles.

What you need

Step 1 Tuner

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Loosen the string for the tuner you are replacing until there is a lot of slack in the string.
This should take roughly 10-20 counter-clockwise rotations.

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Step 2

Use wire cutters or sturdy scissors to cut the string around the midpoint, being mindful of your eyes.
For thinner strings scissors will work, however for thicker strings wire cutters should be used.
Be careful when cutting the string. If there is too much tension, there is a possibility the string can snap back and can potentially hit you or those around you in the eye. To avoid this, make sure there is a great amount of slack in the string such that after being cut it will be limp.

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Step 3

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Unwind the string from the tower of the tuner.

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Step 4

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Use a 10 mm hex-wrench to remove the nut of the tuning tower.
Remove the tower, washer, and hex nut.

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Step 5

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Using a small (1-2mm tip) Phillips screwdriver, remove the screw securing the tuner to the guitar's headstock.
Remove the tuner from the headstock and set it aside.
You may want to keep the tuner parts and screw if you wish to reuse the tuner in another guitar, or to save it as a potential backup!

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Step 6

Using a wet paper towel, or similar material, wipe down the surface where the replacement tuner will be.
This step is optional, although ensuring the surface is clean of dust and debris will ensure the tuner remains fixed.

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Step 7

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Insert the replacement tuners body into the tuner-hole.
Ensure the screw hole lines up with the screw-hole on the headstock.
Use the small Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the screw until the tuner is secure.

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Step 8

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On the other side of the headstock, put the new tuners washer and tower on the tuner column.
Place the nut on top of the washer and tighten to finger tightness.

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Step 9

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Use a 10mm hex wrench to tighten the tuner nut.

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Conclusion

Once you have tightened the replacement tuners nut, the guitar is ready to restring. Congratulations, you have successfully replaced a Fender Squier Stratocaster tuner!

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