The following article provides guidance and tips on String Butler Installation for general Acoustic or Electric Guitar applications.  It is impossible to cover all of the guitar models available in the world.  Please let us know if you have any specific questions or concern.

To prevent damage to your guitar, Laplace recommends that this product be installed by someone qualified to perform basic guitar modifications.

Youtube Installation Videos

The following two videos, while not created by Laplace, do the best job of accurately and quickly explaining how to install the string butler.  Note that these videos don’t discuss the plastic washers that are included in the package because they are a new addition.  These washers are intended for placement between the device and guitar. They are optional, and you don’t need to use them.  They are provided in case you would like to prevent the String Butler from touching the headstock finish.

Step by Step Installation Instructions

Step 1: Decide how you will mount your String Butler.

Reference the following diagram for placement options.

While not shown, the String Butler can also be placed between the second row posts with the tip facing down like the “Acoustic Headstock Position”.

Note that if your guitar requires the use of screws to attach the String Butler then it will likely need to be placed per the version shown on the left in the graphic above as the device can no longer be placed with the slots around the tuning pegs.

Recommended screw for attachment, if required: #4 1/2″ long wood screw

This page will not provide instructions for installing with screws as this type of installation should only be done by a qualified guitar technician.

Step 2: Remove the strings from your guitar

Loosen all of the strings, cut them, and remove them from the guitar.  Do not try to install the String Butler with the strings still in place.  This is especially important for the Acrylic version which can fracture if bent while trying to maneuver under strings.  It is recommended that new strings be installed with the String Butler.

Step 3: Remove the hex nuts and washers from the two machine head posts to be used for holding the String Butler using a socket or wrench.

While loosening the nuts, notice how much force is required to free up the nut.  This will give you an idea of how tight the nut should be upon installation.  You don’t want to over-tighten the nut when you put them back on in step 8.

Step 4: Clean the top of the head stock to remove any dust or debris with a soft cloth and a cleaner which is safe for your guitar finish.

This step is particularly important if you are going to install the String Butler without the included plastic washers.  When used without the washers, some portion of the base of the device will rest on the headstock finish.  Any dirt, dust, or debris present could mar the finish.

Step 5: Place one plastic washer over each of the machine head posts. (Optional)

If you would like to isolate the String Butler from contact with your guitar head finish then you can use the plastic washers.  Note that if your guitar uses Locking Tuners then the posts may be too short to work with the washers.  If this is the case then you will have to use without the plastic washers, insure that the headstock is very clean before installation, and be sure to not over-tighten the String Butler which could create an impression in the headstock paint finish adjacent to the machine heads.

Step 6:  Place the String Butler on the guitar in the orientation chosen

Step 7:  Install the the metal washers and nuts that came with the guitar over the posts losely

Step 8:  Center the String Butler on the guitar head and, using a wrench or socket, gently tighten the nuts.  Caution: Don’t over-tighten the nuts.  Reference how easy the were to loosen at step 3.

For precise nut torque requirements reference repair instructions for your guitar or machine head manufacturer.

*******Special Instructions for the Clear Acrylic Model*******

Do not over-tighten the nuts.  They only need to be tight enough to prevent movement of the device while adjusting the string tension.

The Clear Acrylic model should not be used with a string gage over 46

***************************************

Step 9: Install new guitar strings with them routed on the rollers as shown below