how do i make the tremolo arm tighter...

[Dragon Slayer J]

without changing the bushings these ones only lasted 2 days

[GilkyBear]

I have heard a few methods. One would be to put finger nail polish around the spot under the bushings, this makes it thicker and the bushing sticks out a little more causing a tighter grip. Another method I have heard that sounds easier is to put a little piece of duct tape around the bushing (or under it), again, making it just a hair thicker. Duct tape would probably be the easiest to do, as well as replace when necessary.

[markg5150]

Do a search there are loads of threads about this

Do what Gilk suggests, tighten the arm holder from the spring cavity (ibanezrules.com solution, or use a bit off D'addario string bag instead of duct tape

[Dragon Slayer J]

thanks. i got the tape one to work. its much better now, thanks.

[guitarman13]

I had a conversation about this with Vai's guitar tech Thomas Nordegg and he said that he runs a lighter under them real quick to deform the nylon a little bit. I don't remember if he said that he runs a lighter under them when they're on the bar or off, but I don't think it really matters. If it works for Vai, it'll work for you.

[projectjem]

break a slither of wood from a match and put ti between the bar and the hole

[Tom Gilroy]

I use PTFE tape.