American Standard Stratocaster Volume Control Problem
My 2007 Fender American Standard Stratocaster has a problem with the volume control.
The problem is that the volume drops off a "cliff" and cuts out suddenly when you move the control below the 3 position. The whole range of the volume control seems weirdly non-linear with a plateau in the middle of the range. Also when plugged in at high gain, there is a hiss which is louder at 1 (off) than it is at 2.
I thought I had a bad pot, so I purchased a Fender-branded replacement (250k) and soldered it in. The problem is still occurring.
It is wired the same as the factory spec (see diagram).
I'd like a nice smooth linear range from 1 (complete silence) to 10 (full volume). What might the problem be? What are my options?
(1)1 Comments
Sorted by latest first Latest Oldest Best
I had a similar issue with my ’89 Deluxe Strat Plus, the volume went to zero below about 3 on the dial. I bought an aftermarket pot to replace it from a local music store. Never having done this before, I asked a few questions and was told to make sure the pot is at zero when being soldered. Apparently heat from soldering can conduct through the wires and damage the pot in whatever position it is in while being installed, so keeping it at zero prevents a dead spot/area. I heeded the advice and now have a fully functional volume pot.
My only complaint is that the pot I used has a longer post on it than the original, so it sits higher than my tone knobs and isn’t flush against the pick guard. Hasn’t caused any playing issues, but not ideal aesthetically, so be aware if you want to avoid the same.
Terms of Use Privacy policy Contact About Cancellation policy © freshhoot.com2025 All Rights reserved.