Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

anybody has idea what model switchcraft is the switch in 420 425 60's ricks. it is rather strange beast that allows hot lead to go to three separate outs. it seems it vanished from swicthcraft catalogue some years ago.....

It was never IN the catalog, as I recall, but just like the Byrd switch, was fabricated using parts from several switches.

thanks! i didn't know what adventure i picked up with my 67' 425! i'll keep you people posted with this one...

Sounds like you have a nice little project on your hands, Dusan!

it is bit troublesome. it would be easy if switchcraft would not discontinued 28304 L.
they only have a straight one and it wouldn't mount into typical 12017 casing and i don't feel like spending extra $50 + shipping just to find out it will not work.. i am investigating model 12012 but their pdf_s are dated....so well i am at least keeping busy.

Have you tried calling them for guidance?

it was too late when i figured it out, i'll try give them call in the morning.

A DPDT progressive-throw ('on-on-on') switch can be wired to do these functions. They're available either as a right-angled Switchcraft-style with a plastic toggle or a semi-miniature (but still 1/2" bushing) metal toggle as used in some MusicMan models, or a true mini-switch (1/4" bushing) which is probably not going to fit.

http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Electronics ... ml#details (Switchcraft type). These are intended for 3-pickup SG Customs but can be used for different schemes too, depending on how you wire them.

The picture is wrong on that link by the way (it shows a standard right-angle switch), but the wiring diagram is correct. For 'one input three output' selection, connect the input to pin 2, connect pin 3 to pin 5, and then the outputs are pins 1, 4 and 6.


I can't find a source for the MusicMan one at the moment, but you probably want the right-angle one anyway.

All you have to do is find one with the right basic shell and then get a handful of other switches in the same series. All of the spring contacts are interchangeable. At the hardware store you buy some long screws that match the size of the originals . . . I forget if they're #4 or #6. You can stack up or cut the insulating sleeves to fit, or if you don't care about original looks, just use heat-shrink tubing. Figuring out the switching combination you need is just a matter of drawing it out on paper and some experimentation. This whole procedure is MUCH easier than, say, unwinding a pickup or repairing a lightshow guitar.

thank you very much for all the help. it is pretty clear now.