Tremolo and Ashtray cover questions

[Shuffles]

Setting aside the whammy bar for a bit, does it matter how i have my spring tension set?

Also, i love the look of anyway covers, was there ever a point besides cosmetics? I read somewhere for sheilding (on a tele). Think maybe in those days they just thought an exposed bridge was improper for a lady

 

[Miotch]

If you have your tremolo decked, all that matters on spring tension is that it is enough to overcome the tension of the strings. If you have your tremolo floating, spring tension needs to equal the string tension, so you have to adjust accordingly (using the claw screws and number of springs).

I've never owned one with an ashtray cover and I can't imagine it would change a darn thing on shielding. It's just an additional piece of metal you are sticking on top of another piece of metal.

 

[Ramblin'man]

The ash tray cover also hinders in case you need to mute the strings with your palm.

 

[92 Fiesta Red 62]

I play with the ashtray in place (and have for 29 years), and it’s never hindered palm muting.



I also play with the ashtray in place on my Telecaster (big cover) and Telecaster Deluxe (similar to a Strat, because it’s a hardtail Strat bridge).



I like the way they look, and they keep my right hand from being shredded by the edges of the bridgesaddles/saddle adjustment screws (I have a skin condition that makes my hands crack and peel. It’s delightful [note sarcasm font]).

 

[Shuffles]

I find them rather classy as well, but was thinking about the palm muting. That's not really a deal with me i guess as i bar mostly and like picking up near the neck for the sound. That does it, I'm gettin' one, lol