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Switch out output jack on an active P Bass?
Hi Gang, Has anyone switched out the plastic, 8 pin box output 18 volt active/battery switch output jack on a P Bass special for a standard TRS output jack or some other? I just got off the phone with Fender and they don’t make this anymore and they recommend replacing with another plastic box from Molex and are sending a wiring diagram. The problem with all this is the plastic boxes have wimpy thin spring steel and wear out quickly. I’ve over bend the springs but that fix doesn’t last long. This is the general problem with them. I’ve had to work on a few guitars and basses using them and they all come in for the same reason of not being able to hold the cables in. So I guess the general question is: Has anyone changed out the plastic boxes for simpler, exposed spring set up? Or do I simply have to buy crappy plastic boxes and replace constantly? Of course the switching configurations can be complex but wondering if anyone has used more robust parts………Thanks!
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This discussion was modified 2 months, 1 week ago by
Tony Lewis Skypilot Guitar Repair.
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This discussion was modified 2 months, 1 week ago by
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2 Replies
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Hey Tony
I don’t know this specific P-Bass jack configuration so can’t give you a definitive. It is possible (albeit with some hassle) to source open Switchcraft jacks with some additional switching contacts so it may be possible to replicate the additional switching of the original piece. It will probably depend on how much extra switching it’s doing — some of the plastic-housing jacks can have DPDT switches built in.
If you have a diagram, post it and we can take a look. If not, it may need you to spend some time with a continuity tester to figure out the way the current switching works. Depending on how much switching it’s doing, you may be stuck with the plastic-housing options.
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Hi Gerry! Thanks so much for the reply. I got the wiring diagram from fender. Yes, much switching involved. Initially, one person told me they didn’t carry the switch and indeed referred me to another supplier but then a call back asking for the diagram to another person told me that they still carried it. It would indeed be a hassle to switch switches and configure in the space given. So, In the end, I ordered four of the things. They’re made in China and I’m worried about current tariff nonsense. In working maintenance at the local hospital, much of the machinery have circuit boards and relays would go bad all the time. During Covid, it was nay impossible to get electrical parts, switches in particular. I view it as unfortunate that guitar manufacturers have gone to much more complex circuitry using boards and enclosed switches which are hard to access and maintain, especially since we don’t source that stuff. Your book is excellent by the by. The wiring diagrams are such a great way to start to follow and break down the basics towards understanding the more complex. Thanks for this great resource!
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