Les Paul loose toggle switch

[jhollon]

Alright, i have an LP Studio here that for some reason, the toggle switch is loose and i can turn it in the hole. It selects pickups just fine in all three positions, but it is loose. Anyone got an idea on how to best tighten this up. The corregated nut on top i can turn, but i as i turn it, the toggle moves to a lateral switch orientation rather than a vertical one. I am trying to get this tight without scratching the finish, and am looking for some user techniques to make it easier.

Thanks a ton,

Jeff

[UnklMickey]

Hi Jeff,

I've always had a hard time with knurled nuts. Fortunately, most of the LPs have a big plastic washer with Rhythm / Treble on it. If yours doesn't, maybe a bit of tape around the hole to protect the finish from the pliers while you tighten the nut? I would think there might even be a nutdriver made especially for the knurled nuts, but I haven't actually seen one.

I hope one of the other members has better ideas on this one. It's definitely a problem needing a good solution.

And obviously you would want to take the access cover off the back so you can keep the switch body from turning, while you tighten the nut.

[DarKnight]

My solution to problem with loose pots/switches/strap buttons is using small water balloons... don't use that thick part though.. just cut it off and then cut small rings (prolly 2mm wide) from rest of the balloon.. put one or two of these under the washer or nut and tighten up... Should work.. And as a plus it also prevents damage to finish if using metallic washers and/or nuts... have had this in my guitar for four years and never have had to tighten up anything... btw if there is some sort of fabric "washer" under the strap button, I'd take that of, cos it won't keep button in place lake rubber does... Hope this helps.. ;D

Dark

[JohnH]

I also have an LP Srudio that does that. You have to remove the back cover plate to hold the switch body. Then I just use pliers on the knurled nut, having previously wrapped some electrical tape around it and being careful to grip the nut only and keep clear of the treble/rhythm plate.

John