Help! String breakage

[paranoid70]

So, I have had my Silo Spec for about 1 1/2 years and I seem to break D strings at a ridiculous rate. I actually sent it back to the factory when it was still under warranty, but it was returned in the same condition as they found nothing at all wrong with it. It clearly doesn't look like something is wrong with the saddle to cause these breakages. However, I don't seem to have this problem with my other guitars.

In the last two months, I have broken three D strings. BTW, I about split my time with playing both guitars, so I don't play this one every day.

Assuming that the guitar is tip top, what might I be doing that causes the string to break so frequently? I will admit that breakages always occur at gigs or rehearsals and never at home.... too much nervous energry perhaps? I have heard that there are replacement saddles one can use to help with string breakages, are they worth it?

Lastly, I use Super Slinkys (D=.024). I haven't used any other gauge or brand of string in over 10 years.

 

[MrMusashi]

tough one this is..

internet diagnostics are usually just a tossing of opinions..
here are my humble suggestions:

try a different brand of strings.. i know we all are eb fanbois here, but just give it a try. heck.. buy a single .24 just to check it out.
in our store we sell el***r strings for acoustic and some of my customers go through g strings faster than hungry dog through a bowl of food.
id say it happens to 1 of 10 customers.. i suspect the difference is in plectrum useage/technique, but one can never know for sure.
so currently im running a test.. those customers who destroys g strings get a pack of the new eb coated strings to check out. if successful we will change main brand for coated strings

keep the broken strings to see where they break. if its the same place each time id check that point out closely. any sharp edges? try adding a tiny lil drop of oil or draw with a pencil there to reduce friction.

but most likely im just shooting in the dark.. the intentions are good though

hth

MrM

 

[glockaxis]

I'd like to also know where the strings are breaking. Maybe try RPS strings which are reinforced slinkys.

 

[morsecode]

I'd like to also know where the strings are breaking. Maybe try RPS strings which are reinforced slinkys.

I don't think the D strings are reinforced as their wound. I believe that only the non-wound strings are reinforced. I could be wrong on that however. Wouldn't be the first time.

 

[TonyEVH5150]

The newer coated strings may help, but I'd definitely try lubing the string at the saddle and the nut.

It also could be that the D-string saddle has burrs or metal shavings that are digging into the string. Not very likely, since it's only 1 1/2 years old. You may need to replace that saddle. maybe even try some of the Graphtech saddles.

 

[fbecir]

If you play with 9-42 strings, it's perhaps too light, depending on the style of music you are playing. Did you try a 10-46 set ?
If you play heavy metal, it's normal to break mostly the A and D strings (all the Galloping pattern ala Maiden ...).
My 2 cents

 

[Tim O'Sullivan]

I used to have exactly the same problem with all of my Axis guitars, though the Red one was the worst one. I used to use 9 - 42 strings (of various brands) and they all used to break D's. I had the guitar looked at by various people, and like you, nobody could fix the problem.

First thing I did was go up to 10 - 46. This partially cured the problem, though I would still break D's more than I thought that I should be.

The thing that cured this problem for good was putting Graphtech String Saver saddles on all of my guitars (the standard black ones). I play very hard, and use a 1mm plastic pick and NEVER break strings now.

 

[paranoid70]

Two bits of advice sound interesting: Lubing the saddles. What do you use WD40?

Graphtec Saddles: That may be worth trying if the lube job doesn't work. Thanks Tim.


Yes, I always break the strings at the bridge. As I said earlier, I sent the guitar to the factory several months ago and they said it was fine. (Although they did clean it up nicely.) I will certainly admit it could be my playing. I am self taught, and thus I had a lousy teacher.

BTW, although I love Metal, I don't play that style much. I do play hard rock though, so I see to always break a string on a Who song.