Classical/Nylon String Question

[Bytor1975]

I have a 1971 Martin 00-18c that bought at Gruhn Guitar 10 years ago. I don't play classical guitar, but I just wanted one... well, cause I didn't have one! :)

The problem I have is I only get this thing out a few times a year, and it seems to always have a busted string on it, usually when I open up the case after a long slumber. It seems to usually be one of the wound strings and it breaks at the first tied loop on the bridge. I've even had it on my guitar stand and happened to be looking at from 10 feet away and BOINK! String breaks!

I have tried GHS LaClassiques, D'Addarios Pro Artes, and another brand that I don't remember, but all with the same results. My music room's temperature and humidity is pretty well controlled, and I've ever had any issues with any other of my guitars. One guy told me it isn't uncommon to open classical cases and a string be broken and it is just the nature of the beast.

Are those nylons just that fragile? Or maybe it is an issue with how I tie my strings? Any comments would be appreciated.

http://www.geocities.com/teletwangfever/fenderpick/martinbridge.gif
http://www.geocities.com/teletwangfever/fenderpick/martin0018c.gifhttp://www.geocities.com/teletwangfever/fenderpick/matin0018c2.gif

[TexMexMike]

That does not sound right to me. I use D"Addario strings on my classical guitars. They last for a long, long time. Infact 1 guitar has had the same strings on it for 4 years! The other has a set on it that is going on 4 months.

Here in SoCal, we don't have the climatic changes that you have in Alabama. But, I would think your strings should last longer than they are.

Here's a link to a site that explains the proper technique to string a classical guitar. I hope it helps!

www.frets.com/FRETSPages/Musician/Guitar/Setup/Classical/ClassicStr/classicstr1.html

[WireNWood]

Yea, that's odd.

I don't see anything wrong with the way you've tied the strings... I didn't check out Mike's link, there.

[Bytor1975]

I see the guy on that link uses one loop for the bass strings, whcih is what I have the problem with. I saved Mike's link he sent, so next time I restring it I'll try that out. Maybe that will help.

Thanks guys, I appreciate the comments!