EMG 85 Bridge Problems (Help?)

[Spunfused]

First off, I'm still learning how this sort of stuff works, so I apologize for my lack of knowledge. And if u need pictures for further understanding, let me know.

So, I am upgrading my Mexi Stratocaster, by adding HSS pickups (specifically, two SA EMG's and a EMG-85 for the Bridge.) and I also put them into an aluminum Pickguard.

Unfortunately, my EMG 85 is humming ungodly loud, and I figured out it's something to do with the aluminum Pickguard (for some reason the SA's aren't affected) Iv'e tried copper shielding but it hasn't worked. I use the Quick Connect System for my EMG's so Do I have to copper shield the cables, or is there a different overall solution to this? The pickguard wasn't cheap ($50) and I really don't want to get another one. Thanks!

 

[GuitarDoc]

Re: EMG 85 Bridge Problems (Help?)

The problem isn't with the pickguard. It sounds like maybe you have the hot and ground wires reversed on the 85.

 

[Spunfused]

Re: EMG 85 Bridge Problems (Help?)

Well, it's shouldn't. I checked the wiring over and over agin and it looks right to me

 

[Chad]

Re: EMG 85 Bridge Problems (Help?)

Sorry, I can't help. But I'm reminded why I don't mess with that quick connect mess when I install EMGs in a guitar. I still prefer to buy pots, caps, and a normal toggle switch and wire it up traditional manner. Although non-quick-connect pots are getting harder to find and more expensive last time I checked.

 

[Teleplayer]

Re: EMG 85 Bridge Problems (Help?)

It could be some problem with a bad connection or broken wire. Most likely the black ground wire between the pickup and the selector switch.
Try plugging the neck pickup where the bridge pickup was previously connected. If the problem goes away it confirms there is a problem with the 85 pickup itself, the connector is bad, or wiring broken.
Likewise plug the 85 into where the neck pickup was previously connected and you may find the same problem exists when you put the switch into neck position, as further confirmation of the issue with the 85 and its wiring.