Removing the cover from a pickup

[javert]

Hi guys,

I seem to recall seeing somebody here having changed the covers on their pickup, and I was wondering how you get the cover off without damaging it (or the pickup). Just to be clear, I'm not talking about full chrome or EMG-like covers, but the regular plastic ones on Seymour Duncan pickups, like this:

[Misanthrope[ALWT]]

Those are called bobbins, and I've never heard of this being done.. hopefully someone turns up with some answers! >:|

[javert]

Ah, I see. I can't see how they're attached. Glue, wax?

[MakeAJazzNoiseHere]

It's not a cover, it's one piece.

[ralph]

you can get bobbin shaped covers with holes for the pole pieces, these can be glued on the top if you want a different color, not sure where to get them

[ulijdavid]

Take the pickups to a sign making place (vinyl cutter) and have them cut a "sticker" of the color you need. Put it over the pickup and your done. Peel it off later if you don't like it. Email me for help.

[javert]

Ah, good thing I didn't try to pry it off with a screwdriver, Jazz

Thanks for the input, guys. It's much appreciated.

[Carbuff]

It's not a cover, it's one piece.

Oh, my. I suddenly have the urge to take apart all of my extra pickups. I ve got an unidentified dimarzio from the 80s that is open. Maybe I will start with that one to see whats going on inside. Maybe I can fix it. Awesome!

[Nightbat]

Well, good luck un- and re- winding a few miles of copperwire

[toejam]

You need bobbin toppers. http://www.universaljems.com/cart/bobbin.htm

[Twitch]

Oh, my. I suddenly have the urge to take apart all of my extra pickups. I ve got an unidentified dimarzio from the 80s that is open. Maybe I will start with that one to see whats going on inside. Maybe I can fix it. Awesome!

Ive got a half torn down pup that Im using as a fridge magnet. Theyre hard to tear down without tearing up.

[Carbuff]

Ive got a half torn down pup that Im using as a fridge magnet. Theyre hard to tear down without tearing up.

Thats fine by me. Cant have too many fridge magnets I always say.

[javert]

You need bobbin toppers. http://www.universaljems.com/cart/bobbin.htm

Actually, no. All I wanted to do was clean the damn thing and get rid of all the rust I guess I should have made that clear. But in case I want to change the bobbin or add bobbin toppers, I now know what to look for

[toejam]

Ah, okay. An old toothbrush and a tiny bit of WD-40 should work fine.

[javert]

I ended up removing the pole pieces and putting them in white vinegar and then brushed them. Worked okay. Thanks for the suggestions