3 Way Selector Problem

[Mario8672]

The 3-way pickup selector toggle has a problem. It stays in either the Neck or Both position, even in the full down position. the knob itself is extremely loose when in the middle position. It moves left and right now.

What can I do?

[Newc]

A little wobble in the center position is fine. There's a pin that runs through the center of the ball that the switch pivots on.

It sounds like the contacts are either stuck open or closed (depending on the switch manufacturer). Check to make sure the little bands of the switch are touching when they're supposed to and not touching when they're not supposed to.

[atdguitars]

The 3-way pickup selector toggle has a problem. It stays in either the Neck or Both position, even in the full down position. the knob itself is extremely loose when in the middle position. It moves left and right now.

What can I do?

Replace it. When it gets sloppy in the middle its time for a new one.
It's a $15.00 part for a good Switchcraft switch and if you can handle a soldering iron its a simple job. If you are unsure take it to a local tech or luthier and have it done to save yourself the headache.

[Mario8672]

Is switchcraft a brand that most tech's will have (I don't want a lower quality toggle on my USA)?

[jacksonaxes]

just tell them you want a switchcraft.

[straycat]

USA Jacksons come with a switchcraft.They can wear out so if you have a problem then get a new one, its an easy low cost item to fix.

[Mario8672]

Sweet, I'll take my guitar in on monday and get that nasty 1st fret buzz fixed too. The strap button came out a few days ago; this is totally unacceptable for a $2600 guitar.

[bratfink]

Replace it. When it gets sloppy in the middle its time for a new one.
It's a $15.00 part for a good Switchcraft switch and if you can handle a soldering iron its a simple job. If you are unsure take it to a local tech or luthier and have it done to save yourself the headache.

Do you know the part number? The switchcraft website doesn't distinguish and there are plenty to choose from. I can't find anything on the usual guitar part sites that says 'Jackson correct 3 way selector'.

[Mario8672]

Actually, turns out all I had to do to fix it is press the two metal contacts closer together. It's good as new now HOO-RAH!

[Newc]

Do you know the part number? The switchcraft website doesn't distinguish and there are plenty to choose from. I can't find anything on the usual guitar part sites that says 'Jackson correct 3 way selector'.

Because those switches are industry standard - you'll find the same switch on a PRS, SG, Jackson, Charvel, BC Rich, Hamer, Kramer, GMP, GMW, Anderson, Warrior, and even on Agiles.

You need a 3-way toggle (Gibson style) but not the long bodied version, which would be for Les Pauls and won't fit in the cavity of a Jackson. They'll mount in the mounting hole where the switch comes through the body, but the bottom of the switch will extend to the cavity cover, which is a bad thing.

http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Electronics,_pickups/Components:_Switches_and_knobs/1/3-way_Pickup_Switches.html

Actually, turns out all I had to do to fix it is press the two metal contacts closer together. It's good as new now HOO-RAH!

That will fix 98% of known 3-way issues, as it's usually about intermittent sound.

[bratfink]

http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Electron..._Switches.html

Thanks Newc.

Can you get the different shape caps to go over the switch? i.e. the link shows the domed type, I believe mine is beveled.

[Newc]

Not that I'm aware of. I've never even found a place that carries other switch caps.