Introduction: Guitar Pickup Test Leads

About: Journeyman electrician, Musician, woodworker, and Inventor.

In this instructable I will show you how to make a pair of test leads that can be used with a
multimeter to test your guitar/bass pickups without taking the instrument apart.
I have a website with videos and more info at...
www.guitarTester.com

This tester also can be used to test speakers that are sealed inside a cabinet,
so that you will know the exact Ohm readings with out having to take the cabinet apart.


Step 1: Tools and Material

You will need a basic multimeter
a 1/4" guitar cord jack,
a pair of wire strippers,
a soldering iron,
solder,
and tape.


Step 2: Cutting and Stripping the Test Leads

First thing you have to do is cut and strip the test leads.
I cut the tips of the test leads off as close as I can so I have the max amount of wire left over.
I'm not worried because I can buy these testers w/ leads for about $5.00

you can find them at...
www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/itemdisplay/displayItem.do

Step 3: Connecting and Soldering the 1/4" Jack

Next take apart the 1/4" jack and slide the metal outer part over the striped ends of your test leads.
Connect the black test lead to the main part of the 1/4" jack (this is ground)
Connect the red test lead to the center terminal of the 1/4" jack (this is the hot)

Carefully solder the test leads to the 1/4" jack.



Step 4: Finishing the Test Leads

You may need to tape your solder connections to avoid the test leads from shorting out.
Some 1/4" jacks have a plastic sleeve.
Carefully close the tabs on the 1/4" jack around your test leads.
Tape or sleeve then carefully slide the metal connector over and screw into place.

You are now ready to test your test leads.

As I mentioned in the beginning of this instructable I have a website with Video and More INFO at...
www.guitarTester.com