Import 5 Way Switch Wiring Diagram: A Comprehensive Guide

The importance of a 5-way switch in a guitar cannot be overstated. This switch is responsible for allowing guitarists to access multiple pickup combinations, which greatly expands the tonal options that can be achieved. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram for an import 5 way switch, as well as its practical applications and common misconceptions.

What is an Import 5 Way Switch?

An import 5-way switch is a type of selector switch that is commonly used in guitars made overseas. This switch is similar to the American-made CRL 5-way switch, but has some key differences in its construction and operation.

The main difference between the two switches is the way the contacts are arranged. The import switch has two rows of three contacts each, while the CRL switch has one row of five contacts. This means that the wiring diagram for the two switches is slightly different.

Despite these differences, the import switch is a popular choice for guitar builders and modders due to its low cost and availability.

Wiring Diagram for Import 5 Way Switch

Before we can discuss the wiring diagram for an import 5 way switch, it’s important to understand the basic principles behind how a switch works. An electric switch is simply a device that opens or closes a circuit, allowing current to flow or stopping it. When the switch is closed, the circuit is complete and current flows through it. When the switch is open, the circuit is broken and no current flows.

In a guitar, the pickups are wired to the switch so that different combinations of pickups can be selected. The wiring diagram for an import 5 way switch shows how the six contacts are used to achieve these different combinations. The diagram can be divided into two parts: the switch itself and the wiring diagram.

The Switch

The switch is constructed of two rows of three contacts each. When the switch is in the down position, the first row of contacts is used. When the switch is in the up position, the second row of contacts is used. The center contact is used in both positions.

Each contact is numbered starting from the left. The first contact is numbered 1, the second 2, and so on. The contacts are also referred to as poles, or pole pieces.

The Wiring Diagram

The wiring diagram for an import 5 way switch is shown in Table 1. The diagram shows how each pickup is wired to the switch, as well as the output jack and ground. The contacts on the switch are labeled as follows:

  • 1 – Bridge pickup hot wire
  • 2 – Middle pickup hot wire
  • 3 – Neck pickup hot wire
  • 4 – Bridge pickup ground wire (connected to tremolo claw or bridge)
  • 5 – Middle pickup ground wire
  • 6 – Neck pickup ground wire
  • C – Common output (connected to the output jack)

Each wire is connected to its corresponding contact on the switch. For example, the bridge pickup hot wire is connected to contact 1, the middle pickup hot wire is connected to contact 2, and so on.

Table 1: Wiring Diagram for Import 5 Way Switch

Contact Bridge Pickup Middle Pickup Neck Pickup
1 Hot Hot Hot
2 Hot Hot
3 Hot Hot
4 Ground Ground Ground
5 Ground
6 Ground
C Output Output Output
Ground Bridge Pickup Ground Wire Middle Pickup Ground Wire Neck Pickup Ground Wire

FAQ

What are the advantages of using an import 5 way switch?

The main advantage of using an import 5 way switch is its low cost and availability. These switches are commonly used in guitars made overseas, so they are easy to find and purchase. They also function similarly to the American-made CRL 5-way switch, so they are a good choice for guitar builders and modders on a budget.

Can I use an import 5 way switch in a guitar made in America?

Yes, an import 5 way switch can be used in a guitar made in America. However, the wiring diagram for the switch will be different than the diagram for an American-made switch. It’s important to consult a wiring diagram specific to the switch being used in order to wire the switch correctly.

What are some common misconceptions about 5-way switches?

One common misconception about 5-way switches is that they allow for five different pickups combinations. In reality, there are actually seven possible combinations: bridge pickup alone, bridge and middle pickups together (parallel), middle pickup alone, middle and neck pickups together (parallel), neck pickup alone, bridge and neck pickups together (series), and all three pickups together (parallel).

Another misconception is that the middle pickup is always on in positions 2 and 4. In reality, the middle pickup is only on in position 4 if both the bridge and neck pickups are also selected.

Can I modify the wiring diagram for different pickup configurations?

Yes, the wiring diagram for an import 5 way switch can be modified for different pickup configurations. For example, if you want to add a single coil pickup to your guitar in addition to the standard three pickups, you will need to modify the wiring diagram to accommodate the new pickup. There are many resources available online that can help with this process.

Overall, the import 5 way switch is a versatile and cost-effective option for guitarists looking to expand their tonal options. By understanding the wiring diagram and common misconceptions surrounding the switch, guitarists can unlock the full potential of their guitars.