3-way toggle very noisy

[Soccerman]

Hi
I just took an old Ibanez guitar and updated it with a pair of Duncan humbuckers with a 3-way toggle switch using the wiring diagram on the website here.
The toggle switch makes a hell of a noise when I switch between em. I suppose I should expect it to - after all, I am making and breaking an electrical circuit. But, it seems to work in a billion Les Pauls, so what am I doing wrong please?
Thanks
Phil

 

[greekdude]

Re: 3-way toggle very noisy

Loose fit? I had this on my arz800 till I realized the whole toggle was loose. Tightened it, and the noisy scratches were gone.

 

[kramersteen]

Re: 3-way toggle very noisy

Poor solder joint or a Faulty switch. if the switch was fine before hand then it must be the wiring.

 

[Dave Locher]

Re: 3-way toggle very noisy

Agreed. It should not make any noise at all. Something is touching something that it shouldn't be touching. Maybe you've got wires rubbing against metal or something? Is it an enclosed switch, or the kind where you can see the internals? If it's enclosed in a little metal box it's probably the switch - I recently messed around with a new Danelectro at a shop and the switch was defective.
If it's an open switch then there is some dirt or corrosion or solder where there shouldn't be, OR you've got bare wire or solder making contact where it shouldn't be.
Can you post a photo?

 

[Mincer]

Re: 3-way toggle very noisy

The toggle should be quiet if it is working properly. Use some contact cleaner if what you are hearing sounds like static. If it sounds like buzz or a hum, then it is time to check the solder connections.