Fix Your Loose Vibrato Arm with the Hammer Trick!
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- The Problem with Vibrato Arms
- The Solution: The Hammer Trick
- How to Perform the Hammer Trick
- Best Vibratos for the Hammer Trick
- Cautionary Notes
- Conclusion
- Resources
Article Title: The Hammer Trick: Keeping Your Vibrato Arm In Place
Introduction
If you're a guitar player who owns a Jazzmaster, Jaguar, or any guitar with a Fender offset vibrato design, you may have experienced the frustration of a loose and floppy vibrato arm. This can be particularly bothersome during a performance when the arm tends to swing around or even fall out. Thankfully, there's a simple solution to this problem - the Hammer Trick. In this article, we will discuss how the Hammer Trick can help keep your vibrato arm in place and provide step-by-step instructions on how to perform it.
The Problem with Vibrato Arms
Vibrato arms, also known as whammy bars, are used to create pitch variations and add flair to guitar playing. However, many guitarists find that the stock vibrato arms on their guitars tend to be loose and unreliable. This can make it difficult to control the arm and ensure it stays in place during crucial moments in a performance. When the vibrato arm doesn't stay put, it can be distracting and even affect the overall playability of the guitar.
The Solution: The Hammer Trick
The Hammer Trick is a simple yet effective method that can help tighten the grip of your vibrato arm and prevent it from flopping around or falling out. By making a slight bend in the arm using a hammer, you can create a more secure fit between the arm and the collet, providing better stability and control.
How to Perform the Hammer Trick
To perform the Hammer Trick, you will need a vibrato arm, a vice, and a hammer. Start by removing the arm from the vibrato. Next, place the arm in a vice, leaving about an inch of the end protruding. Secure the arm within the vice by closing the jaws firmly. Taking your hammer, gently tap the side of the arm to create a subtle bend. The goal is to achieve a nearly imperceptible bend that improves the contact between the arm and the collet. Once the bend is made, remove the arm from the vice and reinstall it in the guitar. You may need to exert slightly more force to insert the arm, but this indicates that the Hammer Trick has worked. You can assess the tension of the arm and adjust it accordingly by repeating the process if necessary.
Best Vibratos for the Hammer Trick
The Hammer Trick is most effective on standard Fender-style vibratos found on models such as Fender AVRI, MIJ CIJ, MIM, and Squier imports. These vibratos use a collet to hold the arm in place, allowing for the necessary bend created by the Hammer Trick. However, if your guitar has a vibrato arm that screws in, such as the Johnny Marr Jaguar or the American Professional 2 with the Panorama vibrato, it is not advisable to perform the Hammer Trick. These models have modified arm housings that grip the arm differently and may not benefit from the Hammer Trick.
Cautionary Notes
While the Hammer Trick can be a useful solution for loose vibrato arms, it is essential to exercise caution and use the technique only on compatible vibratos. It is not recommended to use the Hammer Trick on aftermarket upgrade options, as these may have their own mechanisms for adjusting arm tension. Additionally, if you are unsure about performing the Hammer Trick or encounter any difficulties, it is best to consult the manufacturer or seek professional assistance to avoid causing damage to your instrument.
Conclusion
The Hammer Trick offers a practical solution for guitarists who struggle with loose vibrato arms. By using a hammer to create a subtle bend in the arm, you can improve the stability and playability of your guitar. While it is important to consider the compatibility of your vibrato before attempting the Hammer Trick, many standard Fender-style vibratos benefit from this technique. Remember to exercise caution and seek guidance if needed to ensure the best results for your instrument.
Resources
- Mother Mary - A company that produces high-quality guitar straps, gig bags, and pedals.
- Patreon - A platform where you can support content creators and access exclusive benefits.
