How to Install a Full-Size Humbucker Pickup in a Telecaster- A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Install a Full Size Humbucker in a Telecaster

Installing a full size humbucker in a Telecaster can be a rewarding modification that can significantly enhance the tone and versatility of your guitar. Whether you’re looking to add a bit of extra punch to your rhythm playing or explore the world of humbucker tones, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

– Full size humbucker pickup
– Pickup mounting hardware (screws, washers, and springs)
– Pickup cover (if desired)
– Screwdriver
– Wire cutters and strippers
– Soldering iron and solder
– Electrical tape
– Desoldering pump (optional)

Step 1: Remove the Pickup Cover

Start by removing the pickup cover from your Telecaster. This is usually held in place by a few screws. Once the cover is off, you’ll have access to the pickup and the wiring inside the guitar.

Step 2: Disconnect the Original Pickup

Locate the pickup wire leads and disconnect them from the potentiometers and switches. This will prevent any accidental short circuits during the installation process. If you’re not sure which wire goes where, consult the pickup’s wiring diagram or the Telecaster’s original wiring diagram.

Step 3: Remove the Original Pickup

Using the screwdriver, remove the screws that secure the original pickup to the guitar body. Gently pull the pickup out of the guitar, making sure to disconnect any remaining wires.

Step 4: Prepare the Humbucker

Take your new humbucker and remove the mounting hardware from the back of the pickup. You may need to unscrew the pickup cover to access the mounting hardware. Once the hardware is removed, you can set the pickup aside.

Step 5: Install the Humbucker

Place the humbucker in the same position as the original pickup. Align the mounting holes with the holes in the guitar body and secure the humbucker in place using the mounting hardware. Tighten the screws, but be careful not to overtighten them, as this can damage the pickup.

Step 6: Wire the Humbucker

Now it’s time to wire the humbucker. First, strip the ends of the pickup wire leads and the wires from the potentiometers and switches. Solder the pickup wire leads to the corresponding wires from the potentiometers and switches, following the Telecaster’s original wiring diagram or the humbucker’s wiring diagram.

Step 7: Secure the Wires

Once the wires are soldered, wrap them in electrical tape to prevent any short circuits. You can also use heat shrink tubing for a cleaner look. Secure the wires to the guitar body using the pickup cover or other mounting hardware.

Step 8: Reinstall the Pickup Cover

Replace the pickup cover and secure it in place using the screws. Make sure the cover is aligned correctly and that all the wires are neatly tucked away.

Step 9: Test the Humbucker

Now that the humbucker is installed, reconnect the guitar to an amplifier and test the tone. Adjust the potentiometers and switches to ensure everything is working correctly. If you encounter any issues, double-check your wiring and make any necessary adjustments.

Conclusion

Installing a full size humbucker in a Telecaster can be a challenging but rewarding project. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can easily upgrade your Telecaster’s tone and add a new dimension to your playing. Enjoy your new humbucker-equipped Telecaster!