How to easily add pre-wired pickups to your electric guitar

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Many of us wonder how to improve the sound of a kit guitar. One of the simplest and most effective ways to do this is by installing a new pickup assembly, available from numerous suppliers where guitar kits can be purchased. When searching for your new pre-wired pickup system, it’s important to look for quality in both the wiring and the components used. Installing a new pickup system only requires a few basic materials and some solder. These tools will enable you to remove the old pickup unit and install the new one in your instrument.

First, you need to remove the guitar strings to ensure they don’t get in the way or become damaged. Additionally, you must remove the screws that secure the pickguard to the guitar body . You should also remove the two screws that hold the output jack plate onto the guitar body. To prevent misplacing any screws or small components from the pre-wired pickup, have a container ready to store items for later use. There are three wires that connect the pickguard to the guitar body. The first one is the ground wire that runs from the tremolo claw to the casing ground. Cut this wire as close as possible to the casing using your angled cutters. The other two wires that need to be cut are located beneath the output jack plate, which is why you had to remove the screws earlier. Set the output jack plate aside so you don’t lose it.

Next, remove the plastic hardware from the old pickguard assembly. You may need these for your new guitar kit that you’re installing. Use a wrench to loosen and remove the control nuts from the new pickup assembly. Then, use a screwdriver to release the screws that secure the pickup selector switch. Be cautious and store the nuts and screws in a place where you won’t lose them.

Unscrew the pickups from the pickguard plate and lift the plate. Repeat this process with the pickup assembly of the electric guitar as well. If you don’t plan to use your old pickguard, you can skip this step. Now, you’ll need to rewire the pre-wired pickup to the guitar body. Lay down a piece of cloth to protect the body of the guitar from scratches to the finish. There are three wires to connect, the same three you trimmed earlier: the wires for the output jack and the wire from the tremolo claw to the ground casing. Solder the ground wire and secure the wires to the output jack.

Finally, all you need to do is replace all the screws and hardware, and restring the guitar. Great job! You have successfully set up your guitar kit with a pre-wired pickup.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME