Replacing an Existing Floyd Rose-Style Tremolo with FlowTrem2

For guitars that already have a Floyd Rose-style double-locking tremolo. This guide covers the replacement; final balance, action and intonation are completed in FlowTrem2 Setup and Care.

Check compatibility · Remove the old tremolo · Fit FlowTrem2

Check Compatibility

FlowTrem2 follows the Floyd Rose Original-style footprint. A familiar name or appearance alone does not confirm fit, especially with licensed or low-profile systems.

Before ordering or removing the old bridge, check:

• Version and alignment: match 6- or 7-string hardware; confirm the outer strings align with the neck, the required action is achievable and the saddles have usable intonation travel.
• Pivots: check stud spacing, stud-groove shape and the condition of studs and inserts. If changing studs, confirm the thread matches the existing inserts.
• Moving clearance: check the route around the baseplate, saddles, rear string-locking screws and arm socket—not just whether the bridge fits at rest.
• Block and springs: choose the MONOLITH configuration from the actual cavity, spring position and rear-cover clearance.

Before removal, measure the existing installation. The block-height guide shows the measurement and comparisons for existing 28, 32, 37 and 42 mm blocks. Do not copy the old block number automatically.

Keep compatible, undamaged studs and secure inserts where possible. Do not redrill solely to match a slightly different published stud-spacing figure: FlowTrem2 uses the treble-side pivot as its lateral reference and a straight bass-side knife edge to accommodate minor variation. Both pivot contacts and string alignment must still be checked.

No existing compatible tremolo installation? Use Installing FlowTrem2 in a New Build.

Remove the Old Tremolo

Have a tuner, the correct hex keys and screwdrivers, string cutters, a suitable spring tool and a finish-safe bridge support ready.

1. Photograph the bridge position, stud height, saddles, spring arrangement and claw position. Record string gauges, tuning and the block-clearance measurement.
2. Protect the guitar and support the bridge. Release the locking-nut clamps, then gradually detune and remove the strings.
3. Keep the bridge supported while removing the springs one at a time. Control each spring; do not let it snap free.
4. Lift the unloaded bridge off the studs without twisting it against the knife edges or using the arm as a lever.
5. Inspect the pivots, inserts, locking nut, claw and cavities. Loose inserts, damaged grooves or cracks need attention before fitting the new bridge.

Keep the original assembly and parts together. Do not remove secure inserts unnecessarily.

Prepare the FlowTrem2

Check the selected MONOLITH block, any approved 2 mm titanium shim and the matching block screws. If changing the configuration, keep mating surfaces clean, seat the block squarely and tighten progressively with the specified hardware. Incorrect screw length can bottom out or leave too little thread engaged.

Standard FlowTrem2 does not use the conventional fine-tuner tension plate or its support plate. Do not transfer them from the old tremolo. An optional conventional-plate arrangement requires the dedicated KMS support sheet and a fresh block-clearance check.

Check that saddles and string-locking inserts are correctly seated. Do not file the V-shaped string contacts, grind screw heads or improvise shims.

Fit FlowTrem2

1. Set an approximate stud height with the bridge unloaded. Place both knife edges in their intended stud grooves without sideways force.
2. Support the bridge and gently check its intended movement. Confirm string alignment and clearance around the baseplate, locking screws, MONOLITH block and OmniPort socket. Do not use the arm to overcome contact.
3. Check that OmniPort is secure. Insert the matched FlowBar with clean, undamaged O-rings correctly seated; engage the retaining mechanism and set arm resistance with its adjustment cap. Do not force a tight arm or bend it to change the fit.
4. Support the bridge near its intended neutral position and attach the springs securely. Use an arrangement suited to the intended strings and tuning; keep spring loading centered and clear of wiring and cavity walls.
5. Confirm the claw is stable, its screws have adequate engagement and the guitar’s existing bridge-ground connection remains intact.

The initial unloaded check is not the final clearance test. Repeat it with the strings and springs installed.

Install Strings and Complete Setup

1. Leave the locking nut released. Cut off the ball ends cleanly and seat the straight string ends fully in the locking recesses. Keep each insert correctly positioned and clamp securely without excessive force.
2. Set the fine tuners within a useful working range, with adjustment available in both directions. Under string tension, confirm that each fine-tuner tip engages its string-locking screw.
3. Tune gradually with the machine heads. Bring string and spring tension toward balance before removing the bridge support; never pull out a tightly trapped support.
4. Continue with FlowTrem2 Setup and Care for balance, relief, action, radius and intonation. Lock the nut only when the setup and strings are stable.

Finish by checking the complete intended movement, including the rear cover, spring hooks or Spring Retainer, wiring and string-locking screws. Start gently; stop at scraping, impact or unexpected resistance. Use the illustrated clearance checks.

Unsure About Fit?

Before modifying the guitar, email service@kissmystrings.com with the guitar and tremolo model, string count, stud measurements, existing block length and clearance x. Include photos from above, from the side and into the open spring cavity.