Squier Stratocaster's Bridge Lift After Restringing with Ernie Ball Beefy Slinkies

Question

Squier Strat, my high E string snapped yesterday, so I replaced all strings.

I used Ernie Ball's Beefy Slinky (2627) with following gauge numbers:

1. E (11)
2. B (15)
3. G (22p)
4. D (30)
5. A (42)
6. E (54)

When tuning, I found a LOT of resistance from the strings when tuning to standard EADGBE. My gut told me that something's off, and I saw the bridge lifting up all the way. Immediately relaxed pressure by loosening the strings, to not damage it.

My guess: I used the incorrect gauge (Guy at guitar center suggested 2627 Beefy Slinky). Please do offer your suggestions.

Answer 1

Sounds like the old strings were a lot lighter in gauge. The compensating springs connecting the underside of the mechanism will need tightening (or even adding to) to compensate for the extra tension the new strings exert.

In fact, unless you want beefy strings, which will be more difficult to bend, but give you a fatter sound, go for a lighter gauge set anyway. The neck, thus action, will also probably need some tweaking to compensate too - trussrod most likely.

Not knowing what was already on, it's impossible to give any more than these vague instructions. But for me, they're too heavy for standard Strat playing.