Bridge on T.O.M. systems

[marcus2]

Folks,

I'm curious to learn more about the adjustments on a bridge for a tune-o-matic system, as found on my Studio and some other Gibson-type guitars.

Specifically, I'm wondering if, as the bridge is set higher, whether it is more prone to bending and collapse? Or, is the bridge stable regardless of how high it is set?

Thanks,

Marc

[cynic]

The bridge being too high relative to the tailpiece would be an issue. If the strings are at too steep an angle on the back side of the bridge they will apply too much force from the tailpiece side which will bend the studs towards the pickups.

The main reason I wrap my strings around the tailpiece is to reduce the side pressure on the bridge, which my Mississippi education says makes sense.

[murkat]

In all my years of guitardom, I have only seen one TOM bridge collapse, 12 /58's.

with a TOM or an ABR, you do not want the strings rest on the backside of the bridge.