TIP - Taming those pesky pickup springs ...

[SamIAm]

I've just upgraded the pickups in my P bass.

The old ones used foam pads, the replacements had springs.

I've never installed pickups like this, but from experience with similar things I knew they were going to be trouble ... so I turned to google on the basis that I cannot have been the first person to experience this.

 

Reading a few sites I stumbled across a total gem ... and wanted to share it.

 

A pair of alligator clips!

 

Before positioning the pickup, pop in a screw, slide the spring in place, compress the spring and then place the alligator clip onto the screw to hold the spring in place ... repeat for the other side.

 

I actually then attached a pull wire to each clip (as the space around the pickups left no room to get in to remove the clips).

 

Tighten the screws enough to hold and pull away the clips ... job done.

 

S'manth x

 

Credit: Original Post where I discovered this technique.

[fleabag]

In the past , i've blobbed a tiny bit of silicon on the bottom springs and let it go off.  Job done.  I actually prefer springs to foam.

[PaulThePlug]

Sometimes ya need both...

Foam to hold the pup inside the cover...

Springs for a firmer feel and adjust...

[LeftyJ]

The springs can be replaced by silicone hose too. I use them in one of my Strats and they work great in it. 

[MoonBassAlpha]

LeftyJ: rockin' the hose! 😀