Need Help with Telecaster Humming Issue in Bridge Position - Grounding Problem?

[unleashthejay]

I received a free MIM Telecaster, and I briefly plugged it in and played it before getting a setup at a local guitar shop (the neck was in really bad shape, so I handed it to the tech. also, I wanted to play it for a few weeks before deciding which pickups to swap out).

When I got it back yesterday, I noticed that in the bridge position, it hums pretty loud, but when I touch the control plate or knobs, it stops. Does anyone have any suggestions on what to look for before opening it up? (I will need to cut new stings, which is unfortunate).

Also, do you think the set up should have found this and fixed it? Should I go back to the store?​

 

[jeremy]

its probably just a ground wire. only hums in the bridge position?

a setup doesnt usually involve rewiring an guitar, its possible they didnt even plug it in

 

[unleashthejay]

its probably just a ground wire. only hums in the bridge position?

a setup doesnt usually involve rewiring an guitar, its possible they didnt even plug it in

It hums in all positions but louder in the bridge. I tried to look to see if there were any loose wires in the control cavity and output but it seems to be ok. I may need to lift up the bridge to see there.

 

[jeremy]

id guess its the bridge ground wire is either missing or not making good contact

 

[Mincer]

Also, single coil pickups will hum.

 

[unleashthejay]

Also, single coil pickups will hum.

I know that (and like it), but it's just that it's way louder on the bridge, and when you touch the knobs, or control plat it stops.

 

[AniML]

It could be normal noise from singles, but also a ground issue on your AC outlet or interference from lights, screens etc. could be contributing. Have you tried in different outlets, and ideally in a different location with no overhead lights or other devices plugged in?

 

[jeremy]

if you touch the metal bits and its stops, ground wire is the first thing to check

 

[marcello252]

if you touch the metal bits and its stops, ground wire is the first thing to check

absolutely this. there must be a ground wire from one of the pot cover to the 'inside' of the wood bridge side (normally the bare part of this wire sits right under the bridge plate).

Also, there might be a little wire soldered to the baseplate of the bridge pickup coming from the pickup inside, look for it, I guess it might be there, in case you don't see it ask a tech to check.

double check the cover of the neck pickup, occasionally it could have a separate wire (in case former owner tried the series connection), in case this wire too must be connected to ground.