When wax potting doesn't fix a squealing pickup, what's left?

[Inazone]

Several months ago, I had a local luthier try potting the DiMarzio Steve's Special in my snakeskin Dinky, as it was squealing like crazy. This didn't help at all, which leaves me wondering what more I can do before I replace the pickup. The only thing that I hadn't considered before was how the bridge pickup is mounted in this guitar, which has a Tele-style hardtail bridge. Instead of a pickup ring, the bridge holds the pickup down, as shown:



I don't have squealing issues with other pickups (EMG 81, Invader, JB) using this same bridge type, but I really like the tone of the Steve's Special. Any other suggestions before I buy a new pickup?

[jackson1]

Does it squeal when you hold it? Put two fingers on the bass side of the pup and press. I like the Steve's Special too. Don't have a squealing problem with it.

[toejam]

Maybe the guy didn't pot it right. Ask John (Jgcable) if he can repot it for you.

[jgcable]

Sounds like it wasn't potted correctly. There is actually an art to it.
The key is to add beeswax to the mixture.

[hammer84]

John potted one of my pickups and it works like a champ now.

[Inazone]

This guy is a definite pro, so I'm fairly certain of his abilities...and he does use beeswax. He explained to me what he'd be doing, but also said that potting isn't a guaranteed fix. This was a pickup that I bought used, and this same luthier is the one that installed it for me after I got the body back from GMW. Problem is, I absolutely could not make it squeal on the amp in his shop, or at home when I'm practicing, even though I'm playing through my live rig...although at apartment-friendly volumes.

The volume seems to be the key, but standing further away from the amp/cab doesn't have any obvious effect.