Humbucker pickups are a popular choice among guitarists for their ability to provide a noise-free and powerful signal, thanks to their dual-coil design. However, one common issue that guitarists may encounter is a humbucker pickup that isn’t sitting flat or level. In this article, we’ll discuss the possible reasons behind this problem and how to troubleshoot it.
Possible Causes
There are several reasons why a humbucker pickup might not be sitting flat:
Mounting Screws
One of the most common causes is loose or uneven mounting screws. If the screws holding the pickup to the pickup ring or the guitar body are not tightened evenly, it can result in the pickup being tilted or not sitting flat.
Pickup Ring
The pickup ring, the plastic or metal frame around the pickup, may not be level. If the pickup ring itself is uneven or improperly installed, it can cause the pickup to sit at an angle.
Height Adjustment Screws
Each end of a humbucker pickup typically has height adjustment screws. If these screws are not set at the same height, it can cause the pickup to tilt or sit unevenly.
Guitar Body Routing
In some cases, the routing or cavity in the guitar body may not be perfectly level or flat. This can affect how the pickup fits into the cavity and may result in an uneven pickup angle.
Pickup Mounting Tabs
Some humbucker pickups have mounting tabs on the sides. If these tabs are bent or damaged, they can cause the pickup to sit at an angle.
Troubleshooting and Solutions
If you’re experiencing a humbucker pickup that isn’t sitting flat, here are some steps to troubleshoot and address the issue:
1. Check Mounting Screws
Start by inspecting the mounting screws that hold the pickup to the pickup ring or the guitar body. Ensure that they are all tightened evenly. Use a screwdriver to adjust any loose screws and make sure they are snug but not over-tightened, as this can damage the pickup or the guitar body.
2. Examine the Pickup Ring
If the pickup ring appears uneven, remove it and inspect it for any warping or damage. If necessary, replace the pickup ring with a new one, making sure it’s level when installed.
3. Adjust Height Screws
Check the height adjustment screws on both ends of the pickup. Ensure that they are set at the same height. Use a ruler or a specialized pickup height gauge to measure and adjust them evenly.
4. Inspect Guitar Body Routing
If the issue persists, inspect the routing or cavity in the guitar body where the pickup sits. It should be level and free from any obstructions. If you find any irregularities, consult a professional guitar technician for further evaluation and correction.
5. Check Pickup Mounting Tabs
Examine the mounting tabs on the sides of the pickup. If they are bent or damaged, carefully straighten them using pliers or seek assistance from a guitar technician if necessary.
Conclusion
A humbucker pickup that isn’t sitting flat can affect your guitar’s playability and tone. By identifying the cause and following the appropriate troubleshooting steps, you can ensure that your pickup sits level and functions optimally. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable making adjustments yourself, don’t hesitate to consult a professional guitar technician for assistance and guidance.