The Telecaster guitar is one of the most iconic instruments in the world of music. It has been used by countless artists across a wide range of genres, from country to rock to blues. One of the unique features of the Telecaster is its 4 way switch, which allows for a variety of different pickup configurations. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram for the Telecaster 4 way switch and provide tips on how to install it in your guitar.
What is a 4 Way Switch?
A 4 way switch is a type of switch that allows for four different pickup configurations in a guitar. It is commonly used in Telecaster guitars, but can also be found in other types of guitars as well. The 4 way switch is different from a standard 3 way switch, which only allows for three pickup configurations. With a 4 way switch, you can combine the neck and bridge pickups in series to get a fatter tone.
There are two types of 4 way switches: the Oak Grigsby switch and the CRL switch. The Oak Grigsby switch is the original switch used in Telecaster guitars, while the CRL switch is a newer switch that is often used as a replacement for the Oak Grigsby switch.
Telecaster 4 Way Switch Wiring Diagram
Below is the wiring diagram for the Telecaster 4 way switch:
| Switch Position | Neck Pickup | Neck and Bridge Pickup In Parallel | Bridge Pickup In Series with Neck Pickup | Bridge Pickup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Position 1 | Hot | Hot | Hot | Cold |
| Position 2 | Cold | Hot | Hot | Cold |
| Position 3 | Cold | Hot | Cold | Hot |
| Position 4 | Cold | Cold | Hot | Hot |
The wiring diagram may look complicated at first glance, but it is actually quite simple. The four positions on the switch correspond to four different pickup configurations. In position 1, only the neck pickup is active. In position 2, the neck and bridge pickups are wired in parallel. In position 3, the neck and bridge pickups are wired in series. In position 4, only the bridge pickup is active.
How to Install a Telecaster 4 Way Switch
If you want to install a 4 way switch in your Telecaster guitar, here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
You will need the following tools and materials:
- Soldering iron
- Solder
- Wire cutters/strippers
- Telecaster 4 way switch
- New pickup selector switch tip (optional)
Step 2: Remove the Old Switch
The first step is to remove the old switch from your Telecaster guitar. To do this, you will need to unscrew the control plate and carefully remove the switch from the guitar. Make sure you remember how the wires were connected to the old switch so you can connect them to the new switch correctly.
Step 3: Install the New Switch
Once you have removed the old switch, it’s time to install the new one. Insert the new switch into the hole in the control plate and screw it in place. Make sure the switch is secure and that the terminals are facing the correct direction.
Step 4: Connect the Wires
The next step is to connect the wires to the new switch. Refer to the wiring diagram above and make sure you connect each wire to the correct terminal. Use wire cutters/strippers to cut the wires to the correct length and solder them in place.
Step 5: Test the Switch
Once you have connected all the wires, it’s time to test the switch. Turn your amplifier on and switch between the different pickup configurations to make sure they are working correctly. If you hear any strange noises or the pickups are not working correctly, double check your wiring.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a 4 way switch in other types of guitars?
A: Yes, you can use a 4 way switch in other types of guitars, but you may need to modify the wiring diagram to match the pickup configuration in your guitar.
Q: What is the difference between a 4 way switch and a 5 way switch?
A: A 4 way switch allows for four different pickup configurations, while a 5 way switch allows for five different pickup configurations. The 5 way switch is commonly used in Stratocaster guitars.
Q: Can I use the 4 way switch with different types of pickups?
A: Yes, you can use the 4 way switch with different types of pickups, but you may need to modify the wiring diagram to match the wiring of your pickups.
Conclusion
The Telecaster 4 way switch provides a variety of different pickup configurations that can help you achieve a wide range of tones in your guitar. By following the wiring diagram and installation steps outlined in this article, you can easily install a 4 way switch in your Telecaster guitar and start experimenting with new sounds.
