Question by Fenix B.: how do I change pickups on a guitar with a coil splitter?
So I have a Schecter C-1 standard that has a coil splitter. I just bought two DiMarzio D-activator pickups that I would like to replace the originals with. I was wondering if the fact that the guitar has a coil splitter would cause the changing process to change at all. I’ve changed pickups on a guitar before, but never one with a coil splitter, so would anything be different or can I just do what I normally do?
Best answer:
Answer by Hawk M
a coil splitter pickup will have 4 wires, not just the normal 2.
2 wires for each coil.
just experiment, you cant hurt anything there.
Add your own answer in the comments!
Hey Felix,
A coil splitter (coil tap) is a common thing, and is standard. The switch which is technically called a DPDT (double pull double throw) should have 6 solder lugs under it. Your DiMarzio D-activator should have 4 wires coming out of it (and possibly a shield). Each pickup company uses different color codes. Anytime I have bought new pickups, they come with instructions in the box that tells you what wire is what. There are 2 coils in your humbucker, the wires are respectively 1 wire that begins the coil on one side, 1 wire that ends the coil, and the same for the other side. If you do not have the color codes from the package, you can try taking a peak on the company website. You will need to know which color is what so you can solder the appropriate wires. If you still cannot find the information, you will need to use a multimeter to test each lead.
Although the theory of installing a new pickup into a coil tap seems easy, but be careful with that soldering iron. You need to use a heat sink or you will melt the insides of the coil splitter. If you are new to soldering and installing pickups you may prefer to let a tech do this job for you. Personally, I never liked going from the sound of my humbucker to the single coil of it only, but its always nice to have options. Good luck with your project.