String Tree Curiosity

Renesongs

I bought a New Jap Strat in the late 80's, equipped with 2 string trees. About 2 years ago I replaced the bridge saddles, nut, and 2 string trees with Graphtech parts, (holds tuning better during extreme whammy conditions). With much trepidation I removed the the Tree holding the G & D strings. I gave my guitar a good thrashing to try get these strings to jump out the nut slots but they remained in place. My real question is Why do Fender manufacture some Strats with 2 string trees when only 1 is needed. Alternatively why to they supply only 3 springs on the tremolo when there is space for 5 or how do you remove the gaping hole left in your headstock when you remove the 2nd string tree.

AlanRatcliffe

Renesongs wrote Why do Fender manufacture some Strats with 2 string trees when only 1 is needed.

I've often wondered myself - seems to be more on the more vintage styled instruments these days.

Alternatively why to they supply only 3 springs on the tremolo when there is space for 5

Because most people only use three.

how do you remove the gaping hole left in your headstock when you remove the 2nd string tree.

I use dowels to plug the hole and just rub a drop of finish in to darken and seal it.