Thinking of getting a Charvel Model 4

[algeriet]

Hey guys

As the title says, I'm thinking of getting a Model 4 that's at a sweet price. Thing is I can't try it. The pics of it shows that its in great condition, but I'm a little bit suspicious of the Kahler.
I had a Gibson Explorer that someone installed a Kahler on and the thing didn't keep in tune for shit. It also had Kahler's string lock mechanism.
How well does the locking nut (what is it exactly) work on the Model 4?

Thanks

algeriet

[Rich#6]

I take it it is an 86?
The lock behind the nut isn't the big problem it's how the string balls sit in the trem unit, they can move when the trem is used.

[Axewielder]

When Chuck Norris' Kahler goes flat, it doesn't actually go out of tune because everybody else in the world then has to retune down to him.

[DonP]

I really like my 1986 Model 4. It's black with gold hardware (done by me). I don't use the wammy too much, but if you maintain it and keep it in good shape, it should be fine.

Many people recommend soldering the ball end of strings.

[Axewielder]

When Chuck Norris plays his Kahler, Floyd Rose pays him a licensing fee.

[Rich#6]

I should add that I do have a 86 model 6, and I do not use the kahler trem because of the tuning issues but it is my favorite guitar and the only one I have never sold. owed since 88.

[BayRocker]

I can assure you that the lock behind the nut is not a problem...I've owned my M4 since 87. I've abused the bar over the years on that git, and the nut has never let me down. I cannot comment on the Kahler bridge itself as I've never actually even played one, my M4 has the JT-6.

[yoko5000]

lock behind the nut isnt problem tuning-stability-wise, no.
but i swapped mine's (exact same 86 model4) with 00s era neck with floyed style nut.
string change gets a bit easier that way.

whats amazing with kharler is its different feel (more like tune-o-matic style bridge) and wider bending range (compared to floyed).
check out my youtube playlist. first 2 videos explain all the tips how to stay in tune with that thing.

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLS3b-jHGBudLzh1k1doPzjSwlw3ggdqG8

[straycat]

I love Kahler trems and never have tuning problems.
I do solder the winds at the ball end of the string to keep the strings from breaking or use heat shrink tubing both ways serves the same purpose.

[Chief_CrazyTalk]

I had a red M4 years ago, an 86 I believe, with the dot inlays and plain pup covers. It was my first Charvel and after that, I sold my Gibson and never looked back. It was a hell of a guitar that I modded many times over. I never had a problem with the Kahler. It stayed in tune perfectly and the nut lock worked fine too. Go for it. They are great guitars.