Unique Strat Wiring Question

[nast2112]

I want to set up my 5-way switch exactly like a regular Strat EXCEPT I want NO SOUND in position 2 (i.e., eliminate the bridge/middle combo setting). Is there a simple way to do this?

Thanks
Chris

[ArtieToo]

Thats going to be a bit tricky. The only thing a 5-way switch does is, connect the terminals of position 1 and 3 at the same time. In other words, there isn't a position "2" to disconnect.

Let me think on this a bit.

[nast2112]

Thats going to be a bit tricky. The only thing a 5-way switch does is, connect the terminals of position 1 and 3 at the same time. In other words, there isn't a position "2" to disconnect.

Let me think on this a bit.

Is there a part on the inside of the 5-way switch to kind of bend away so that there is not a connection in that position?

Chris

[ArtieToo]

If you're very, very careful, you might be able to gently twist the end contact on its pivot rivet, just til it breaks contact in that position. I'ld practice on a "spare" switch.

(In this diagram, the switch is oriented to show position 4 and 5 "bent".
Be sure to orient your switch to the connection point you desire.)

Compare Switch A to Switch B:

[nast2112]

Gotcha. Thank you.

Chris

[ArtieToo]

Just thinking about this some more. For this to work, you'ld also have to bend the middle contact inward ever-so-slightly, or you'll still have the middle position playing in position two.

Just remember, this may not work, and you may destroy a 5-way while trying. I'm still checking to see if there's a better way to do this.

[mongrollo]

I am thinkin in another posibility. There are 5-way swiches for replacement that have 5 separated contacts instead of the 3 ones that the regular fender has. Each of the 5 positions of the selector will conect one of the contacts to the output.

If you wire it in this way you'll get what you want:

1- Bridge
2- Ground (No sound)
3- Middle
4- Sold two cables: one to contact 3 and another to contact 5
5- Neck

I think you can get one of those in Stewart MacDonald, allparts, warmoth.. ect

I hope it helps...

[ArtieToo]

mongrollo's idea of using a better switch is much better of an idea than bending contacts, however, the wiring won't be quite as simple as he suggests. If you solder a jumper from 3-4 and from 4-5, you've just shorted all three of these terminals together, which won't work.

The wiring is still a bit tricky, I'm looking at different options now. Unfortunately, I don't have any of these super/mega switches in my possession to view closer.

I'll see what I can up with.

[nast2112]

Thanks guys. I do appreciate it.

Chris

[mongrollo]

Yes! you are right ArtieToo. i haven't notice that... It is more complicated that that.