Sierra PU with broken mini-switch

Michael Bohannon · Post by **Michael Bohannon** » 21 Jan 2011 2:15 pm

Anybody know how to fix it? I have a 1980 10-string slide-in PU with a worn-out switch on the front of it. The switch is wobbly and makes contact in one position only. I've got a replacement PU on the way. But there's got to be a way to replace this switch. The PU is sealed - looks like silicone inside. Maybe saw a hole in the front to pull out the switch? I'd really like to save it. It's got 12-20-4 scratched on the back.

Len Amaral · Post by **Len Amaral** » 23 Jan 2011 4:12 pm

I have had many Sierra pickups but none with the switch on the pickup itself. Are you sure you are not referring to the three position toggle switch on the guitar? This switch only works with certain model Sierra Pickups. You may want to contact Tom Baker at Sierra as he will be able to answer all of your questions.

Lenny

Michael Bohannon · Post by **Michael Bohannon** » 24 Jan 2011 1:09 pm

Thanks Len, But this PU has a switch right on it. It's from 1980- they probably didn't make 'em that way for long. I'd like to know what it did- right now it just wobbles and gives one tone if I move it just so. - Mike

Len Amaral · Post by **Len Amaral** » 24 Jan 2011 1:16 pm

Michael:

You have me stumped on that one? When you remove the pickup, is there 2 or 3 spring pins on the mounting bezel and does your Sierra have the 3 way switch on the apron?

Lenny

Michael Bohannon · Post by **Michael Bohannon** » 24 Jan 2011 1:32 pm

There are 2 contacts on the bottom of the pickup. Yes, there is a switch on the endplate. I'm not sure, I think it just by-passes the tone and volume controls.- Mike

Michael Bohannon · Post by **Michael Bohannon** » 24 Jan 2011 1:36 pm

Oh, yeah- no switch on the apron at all. Sorry.-Mike

Len Amaral · Post by **Len Amaral** » 24 Jan 2011 1:53 pm

The pickup you have may have been an after market unit installed into a Sierra mounting ring. The toggle switch on the pickup is probably for a coil tap. That's my best guess but hopefully someone jumps in and give you better info on this pickup configuration.

John Floyd · Post by **John Floyd** » 28 Jan 2011 5:50 am

Contact Bill Stafford, He had pickups like that when he had Sierra Guitars. I think there were two versions A Coil Tap and another that switched from single coil to humbucker
They can be opened up to replace the switch but require Delicate Surgery.