How do I change strings on a hardtail or string-through-body guitar like a Telecaster?

A hardtail bridge doesn't move, so there's no balance to keep and you can remove all six strings to clean. Telecasters and many other fixed-bridge guitars use string-through-body, where each string passes through a metal ferrule on the back of the body.

Steps:

1. Detune and remove the old strings. Push each one back through the body and pull it out from behind.
2. Feed a new string into its ferrule from the back. Bend the tip slightly if it catches inside the body.
3. Pull it through the bridge plate until the ball end seats in the ferrule.
4. Lay the string over its saddle and take it to the tuner.
5. Wind with neat downward wraps and tune close to pitch.
6. Repeat, then settle and retune all strings.

Common snags:

• String won't come through: the hole may not line up with the ferrule. Wiggle the string in gently.
• Ball end not seated: the string will drop in pitch as it seats. Push the ball end in from behind before tuning.
• Pitch drops after a few minutes: set witness points at the saddle by pressing the string down firmly.

String-through bridges put the string at a steeper angle over the saddle, which can add a firmer feel. S1046 and S1150 in Power Wound Nickel are reliable starting points.