Stan I can't recall any similar trem set up I've ever seen with them parallel, isn't that weird? Probably one of those things that people do because they saw someone else do it, but no one knows why its done!
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If they are not parallel the outside springs are under more tension than the middle due to the change in length. Don't ask me it was Pythagoras's theory.
Yes, some people do stuff without knowing why...
You are right Dikky, it gives uneven tension, since the outside springs are now over a longer distance than the centre one, and with some enthusiastic trem use the middle spring can drop out - that's why you dont do it.
If you are using 2 springs then angled is correct. Outside lugs on the block and either side of centre at the claw.
For what it's worth, I've had no end of trouble trying to get my Gold Strat to stay in tune, tried replacing the stock nut with a bone one, tried replacing the stock tuners with a set of Grover Rotomatic Locking Tuners, even tried a set of Gold Sperzels (supposed to be the best Locking Tuners you can buy, and they were a set of staggered height tuners too so I didn't need a string tree), tried setting the bridge so that it sat flat on the body, tried putting lubricant in the nut slots, tried making sure the trem springs were installed parallel to each other, even tried setting it up to Fender Strat setup specs, nothing worked.
That is a very nice piece of craftsmanship. Anyone would be proud to own that. Fine job Sir. Good luck with the new addition to the family
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