A Comprehensive Guide to Changing the Neck Pickup on a Fender Stratocaster

If you're looking to change the neck pickup on your Fender Stratocaster, it sounds like a daunting task. However, with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can do it yourself. This guide will help you through every step, from removing the old pickup to testing the new one. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional guitar player, you'll find the information you need here to ensure that your Stratocaster sounds its best.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the following items:

Small Phillips head screwdriver String adjuster Towel or cloth Soldering iron and wire Guitar pick (optional) Wire stripper

Steps to Changing the Neck Pickup

Step 1: Prepare the Guitar

Start by plucking one string of the guitar to note the height of the pickup. Measure from the top of the pole piece to the bottom of the string to ensure accuracy. This will help you set the pickup to the correct height later.

Step 2: Remove the Strings

Begin by removing the strings from your Stratocaster. This is important because it will make it easier to open the pickguard without affecting the strings.

Step 3: Open the Pickguard

Next, remove the 11 pickguard screws. Be careful as you remove them to avoid damaging the wires soldered to the body of the guitar. It's a good idea to place a towel over the guitar body to protect it from accidental scratches or dings. Carefully open the pickguard and set it aside.

Step 4: Solder the Leads of the Neck Pickup

Take the leads of the neck pickup and unsolder them from the connection points where they are currently mounted. Make note of the 2 spots and the color of the wire soldered there. This will help you remember how they were originally connected.

Step 5: Remove the Neck Pickup

With the pickguard now open, remove the neck pickup by disassembling the 2 mounting screws. Take careful note of the springs and rubber tube on the screws to ensure you place them back in the correct spot. Place the old pickup in a safe location.

Step 6: Install the New Pickup

Now it's time to install the new pickup. Follow the same steps as before to mount it in the pickguard. Position the pickup where the old one was and tighten the screws, ensuring the pickup is roughly in place. Adjust the height of the pickup as you did in the beginning of the process.

Step 7: Solder the New Pickup Leads

Reconnect the new pickup leads exactly where the old ones were connected. Use a soldering iron to solder the wires in place, ensuring a secure and tight connection.

Step 8: Re-close the Pickguard

Once the new pickup is secured, carefully close the pickguard back into place, ensuring that the screws are properly in place and tight. Reinstall the pickguard over the new pickup.

Step 9: Restring and Tune

It's now time to restring the guitar. Use your string adjuster to tune the guitar to the desired pitch. Ensure each string is set properly so that it sits correctly under the new pickup.

Step 10: Test the New Pickup

Test the height and sound of the new pickup by plugging the Stratocaster into an amplifier. Tap on the new pickup with a guitar pick or any metal object and listen through the amp for a clear tapping sound. This will help you fine-tune the height and ensure the best sound quality.

Conclusion

Changing the neck pickup on a Fender Stratocaster is a rewarding DIY project that can significantly improve the sound of your guitar. By following these detailed steps, you can ensure that the new pickup is properly installed and providing the tone you desire. Remember to take your time, be patient, and check that everything is secure and properly in place.

Should you encounter any issues or have questions, don't hesitate to consult online forums or YouTube tutorials that offer visual guidance. Happy tuning, and may your Stratocaster shine with its new pickup!