Series/Parallel problems with Tele(HELP!!!)

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Simon
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Joined: Wed Feb 24, 2010 3:47 pm
Location: Newcastle, UK

Series/Parallel problems with Tele(HELP!!!)

Post by Simon »

So.... I have just got my Telecaster back from the guitar shop and the guy who has installed the 4 way selector switch hasn't been able to get it set up correctly. The problem he's had is that everything works apart from having the Bridge Pickup solo. It works when in series and also parallel but not by itself, when you switch to the bridge, it is then still in parallel.

He couldn't explain why this was the case and I was pretty confused too. I've bought the correct switch and everything and he swears that he's used the correct diagram to set it up. Even going so far as to emailing the place where I bought my switch from.

I have installed a P90 into the neck of the guitar and it works perfectly in all positions. I have one of two choices at this point - I either forget the series/parallel mod and revert the guitar back to the standard 3-way switch between Bridge, Bridge+Neck and Neck. Or I try and do my own homework, starting by asking some folk on here if they can help me out. Then take it back to the guy at the shop and hope that he doesn't get insulted by me making alternative suggestions as to why he hasn't been able to set this mod up properly.

I could try sorting this out myself but I haven't got the first clue about wiring diagrams or soldering so I am just asking for some help in finding out why this hasn't worked. I've used the guy plenty of times in the past and he's always did a great job so I have no reason to question his commitment to getting the job done.

Any help is greatly appreciated, as always.

Thanks! :)
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kypdurron
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Post by kypdurron »

in my case the problem was that the switch was not able to switch into the bridge position entirely, it was a mechanical problem, nothing with the wiring. In my case,the switch was stopped by the switch tip. I did cut away some plastic at the bottom of the tip, and now it works. Picture:

Image

In other cases the slot in the control plate may not be wide enough, so you may have to widen it, or try if the switch can be positionedbetter, so that all positiones can be switched. If you doubt it that this is the case in your case, you may want to test the positions with the switch removed from the control plate. That should answer the question if it's a wrong wired switch or a mechanical problem.
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Simon
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Joined: Wed Feb 24, 2010 3:47 pm
Location: Newcastle, UK

Post by Simon »

Hmmm, yeah mine is switching fine so I'm guessing it must be a wiring thing. Not to worry. I think I might have it sorted now.

Thank you for the reply though. It's appreciated!

:)