Troubleshooting Electronics in ES-175d

[jchabalk]

I have a '53 ES-175d. It's in great shape and is all original save the tail piece that was replaced at some point. I've got a problem with the electronics and i'm wondering if there's a good way for me to troubleshoot it - although i'm thinking i might be better off taking it to a pro.

What's happening is that for the most part the controls have little to no effect on the sound. The switch does switch between the neck and bridge pickup and the volume pots do work a bit but you're better off leaving them alone as the sound cuts in and out and they don't seem to work over the full range all the time. Same thing with the tone controls although there's basically no effect with either of the tone controls. The guitar sounds great if you can dial in the sound a bit with the amp EQ.

So I'd love to fix so it's more enjoyable to play, seems like it could be any of a number of problems and the controls would all need to be pulled to figure it out (i'm guessing). I think my main question is - is this something that I should troubleshoot and try to address piecemeal, or should I just replace the pots and caps and call it a day?

[jdgm]

Probably the pots and switch need a damn good cleanout with electronic switchcleaner spray, that should improve things a lot.

And re-solder every joint, during which time you can inspect all the wiring and replace if necessary.  You could replace the caps if you know the value(s).  Of course if you replace the pots and switch, you must keep the original parts (whether they still work or not).  If its 1953, the pickups must be P90s?

Obviously the electronics have to come out to do this.  Don't forget the earth/ground wire which goes to the tailpiece.

Good luck!

Edited January 24, 2022 by jdgm

[Twang Gang]

A 1953 ES 175 is a really cool guitar.  But if none of the electronics work properly it is sort of useless.  Working on ES electronics is difficult because you have to work through the f-holes so I say take it to a pro that knows what he is doing and have it fixed - then you will have a great guitar that works as it should.

[jmendoza]

Easy to work on if you simply remove the strings and the two pick-ups.  Wrap the pick-ups in bubble wrap so they don't scratch the finish.   Try using De-Ox -Id for plastic controls/ sliders as it cleans and lubes the pots. Be careful and cover the guitar body with a plastic bag and a terry cloth towel over that, doubled over. You need to avoid getting the spray cleaner on the finish, as it will harm the Nitro Cellulose finish.   If cleaning the pots and switch does nothing, it is time to have the pots replaced.  For Humbuckers, use 500K audio taper pots such as CTS or Allen Bradley. You can buy them directly from Gibson.