How to: Switch Between Fixed and Tremolo Mode on the Shark Bridge

The Shark Convertible Bridge can operate as a full two-way tremolo or a true fixed bridge. A slide bolt mechanism controls which mode is active. Switching takes seconds and requires no tools.

Locating the Slide Bolt

The locking mechanism is located on the side of the bridge, near the tremolo arm socket. It consists of a sliding bolt with a small, vertical lever handle.

Switching to Fixed Bridge Mode

• Locate the lever: Find the slide bolt handle near the tremolo arm.

• Engage the bolt: Lift the handle to the vertical position and slide the bolt forward until it seats fully into the bridge socket.

• Lock it down: Rotate the handle down to lock the bolt in place.

• Clear the deck: Remove the tremolo arm (optional).

Result: The bridge is now physically locked. You have true fixed-bridge behavior with maximum stability and sustain.

Switching to Tremolo Mode

• Prepare: Reattach the tremolo arm if previously removed.

• Unlock: Lift the handle to the vertical position to disengage the lock.

• Retract: Slide the bolt backward, pulling it completely out of the socket.

• Park: Rotate the handle down to "park" the bolt on the keeper, ensuring it stays out of the way.

Result: The bridge is now unlocked. The tremolo arm has full two-way travel. When you release the arm, the bridge returns to its zero point.

Maintenance Mode

For neck removal, travel packing, and deep cleaning, the bridge has a third position. See How to: Engage Maintenance Mode on the Shark Bridge (link).

Why Switch?

Use Fixed Bridge Mode when you want maximum tuning stability and sustain, or when your playing style does not require pitch modulation. With the arm removed, the bridge profile is low and unobtrusive for your picking hand.

Use Tremolo Mode when you want expressive pitch control. The linear roller design keeps strings at a constant height during use, eliminating the tuning drift found in traditional tremolos.

Both modes maintain the same string action and feel, allowing you to switch between songs or sessions depending on what the music demands.

For more about the Shark Bridge system, see our Shark Tremolo-Bridge article (link).