Pre-Wired Guitar wiring harness | 3-way '72 Telecaster Thinline kit | Right Handed
£64.99
Order times
I usually make harnesses to order, due to the variety of spec options that could be chosen across the whole range. The current turnaround time for a harness orders is around 5-7 working days depending on quantity of orders in at the time and your order will be updated accordingly when it is dispatched. This turnaround time doesn't include the transit time. Thanks for your patience whilst I get your harness made!
Model Description
This harness is a standard '72 Telecaster Thinline model which featured a dual Wide Range Humbucker pickup configuration. It features either 500k volume and tone pots or 1MEG volume and tone pots, instead of the standard 250k used in single coil telecasters for example. The 500k or 1MEG option is to bring out more of the clarity and tonal response of a Wide Range humbucker pickup. Ultimately which you choose is down to personal preference, or perhaps pickup manufacturers recommendations. Some players prefer wide range humbuckers with 1MEG pickups, which were often used in the original 70s WRH equipped guitars built by Fender, for a bit more treble response, which of course can then be tamed with the tone control. But in more modern built applications, 500k is the standard. So I offer it with the choice of standard 500k, or 1MEG depending on your preference.
Please note, website example photo(s) may differ visually from the wiring kit you receive. This could be for a number of reasons but ultimately, don't be alarmed if you do spot differences between the stock photo and your supplied kit.
Options
With or without Treble Bleed?
First up, what does it do? A Treble Bleed kit takes the 'high' treble tone frequencies that are otherwise naturally lost through the sweep out of the circuit at the volume pot, and puts them back in the circuit as the signal leaves the volume pot. The treble frequencies are prevented from naturally bleeding out of the circuit as your turn your volume pot down. The result is a smoothed out treble and a more uniform tone from 1 to 10. Reducing the treble drop out as the volume pot rolls off. Some guitar players wouldn't be without a treble bleed, and many have never used one on their guitars. Truth is, it is very much personal preference. If you like the idea of retaining treble as you roll your volume pot down, then a treble bleed is for you! As standard my treble bleed mod spec is a .001uF capacitor and a 120kOhm resistor wired in parallel.
Pot value/Spec
I offer this kit with some different pot specs, but which do I choose you ask? This choice may be decided by which style of pickups you have for example. Vintage WRH, CuNiFe WRH etc are very often paired with 1MEG pots, they help bring out the full tonal range of these unique pickups. Some of the modern WRH pickups are actually more like a traditional PAF humbucker just under WRH covers, and they're often paired with 500k pots. Essentially, there is no right or wrong here, it's down to what you prefer or how you like your guitar to sound.
Solid or split shaft comes down to what style/size of control knobs you have. Traditionally '72 Tele Thinlines had solid shaft pots with control knobs that secure in place via a grub screw. These are 6.35mm solid shaft sizes. If you prefer to fit alternative style control knobs, push-fit for example, then perhaps consider the split shaft option which is 5.95mm 24 spline.
Fitting notes
I have intended for my wiring harnesses to be as simple as possible to install to your '72 Telecaster Thinline, as well as writing in depth fitting guides, how-to instructions documenting the step by step process as well as a simple to follow wiring diagram. But here are some important spec and fitting notes that will hopefully help you assess whether the kit is suitable for your guitar or what is required to allow it to fit correctly.
Will the pots fit my pickguard
The components I use in my Signature Series wiring kits are for the most part, USA imperial specification. If you're fitting this harness to a far east built guitar such as a Squier or similar brand, then you may have to widen the holes in the body to accommodate for these imperial measurement pots and switch. The CTS pots have a mounting thread shaft diameter of 0.370" / 9.4mm so I recommend for ease of install a 0.394" / 10mm pot mounting hole.
Centre to centre measurements between components are -
Centre of Switch to volume pot - 53mm
Centre of volume pot to centre of tone pot - 50mm
These measurements for my templates were taken from a USA Fender telecaster control plate. I do allow for some 'give' in the wire lengths between components but if your pickguard measurements are drastically different to those noted about, just let me know your centre to centre measurements and I'll make it to suit that for you.
What control knobs will fit?
As there is a few different pot options on this, I will need to detail those below for you.
The Split Shaft pot specs uses CTS Split shaft pots which have an adjustable 0.248" / 5.95mm / 24 splines. You will need control knobs that suit these measurements and secure to the pot via push-fit. But, if you wish to use grub screw style control knobs then the kit can be ordered along with a pair of solid shaft brass conversion sleeves. These fit onto the split shaft post and convert it to 0.248"/6.30mm solid shaft for you.
The solid shaft pot specs uses CTS Solid Shaft pots which have an solid shaft diameter of 0.248" / 6.30mm and require a control knob that suit these measurements and secure to the pot via a grub screw.
Do not attempt to force fit smaller, metric/import spec control knobs onto the imperial USA spec pots, doing this can damage the pot.
The switch is an imperial spec 'CRL' brand item and requires a push-fit switch tip that will fit a 0.189" / 0.482mm switch shaft.
If you do require a US spec control plate or control knobs, I do carry a selection of popular options in stock and they can be viewed in the Control Knob & hardware categories on the store.
Will the jack socket fit my mount cup/plate?
Much like with the control knob and plate fitting notes, this will ultimately come down to where your guitar was made and/or what hardware it has already. The jack socket I use in this kit again is imperial specification, the outer thread diameter measures 0.367" / 9.32mm and ideally requires a 0.394" / 10mm hole to comfortably mount. If you have a threaded electrosocket style jack cup, you will need the imperial thread pitch version. The jack comes provided with washers and mounting nut
Specs
- CTS '450' Series +/-10% Tolerance audio taper pots - Split or solid shaft 1MEG or 500k options
- .022uF 'Yellow Mustard' type tone capacitor
- Gavitt USA made cloth covered 22AWG wire
- 20AWG Tinned copper ground
- CRL 3 way spring loaded lever switch
- Pure Tone multi contact jack socket
- Soldered using R-Tech Premium Lead-Free (Sn95.5Ag3.9Cu0.6) 22swg Solder wire
RoHS Compliant
Please note - wiring kit does not include new control knobs/switch tip/pickguard etc but does include the pot/jack mounting nuts and washers and switch mounting screws.
Why these spec parts over others available?
Simply put, component choice has been one of the most important parts of my product development. I have worked on guitars for many years, and built these kits professionally since 2015, and as a result have been able to see and experience working on the majority of components available on the market. In my findings, A/B testing and more, I have found the components I decided on for my Signature Series to be the most reliable, best tolerance and great functioning parts to use to help customers get the most out of their instruments. I use CTS '450' series premium spec pots as they have a tight tolerance, and will consistently provide me with accurate value, as well as very solid build quality. I use trusty 'Mustard' style polyester film 'tone' capacitors as in my opinion they simply can't be beat for great value, solid construction, solid lead-outs, super tight tolerances and reliable tone/function. I would personally much rather use a trusty Mustard for example over something like a paper in oil, as from experience that are so much more reliable to use. This is from carrying out a lot of A/B testing, both tonally, as well as armed with the multi-meter for testing values and actual tolerances, as well as handling them to test construction quality for long lasting reliability in use. I use the brilliant 'Pure Tone' Multi Contact Jack sockets as they are incredibly reliable, due to their additional contact points for both tip and sleeve. I use CRL, Oak and Switchcraft brand switches across the range as these are built very well, with care will last for many years to come and have long since provided me with reliable use professionally. All kits are wired up with quality USA made Gavitt wire, it's great to work with, super consistent gauge and provides me with a very reliable quality item for my kits. I totally understand that with anything guitar, it is subjective, but I have, with an open mind, thoroughly tested a broad variety of components over the years and these have all become the items I trust to use every day.
Harness FAQ's
I've been proudly making, developing and installing my pre-wired guitar harnesses since the beginning of the Home of Tone back in 2015 (time flies when you're having fun right!). Although I feel I do my best in covering as much information as possible across the various product listings, fitting guides, wiring diagrams and more, I thought it might be helpful to put together an FAQ's page that covers some of the general additional questions I get asked. You can view these Harness FAQ's HERE
'Ground Bug' deal!
Looking forward to installing your new wiring, but a little worried about making the ground connections to the pot casings? First time soldering and hear the horror stories of frying pots, or just simply want to neaten up your installs? Then the awesome 'Ground Bug' will help with any of these concerns, beginner or pro modders alike. The Ground Bug is a pot washer that fits between the pot casing and the pickguard/body and has a number of lugs (much like with the main signal connections on the pot for example) to which you can very easily solder your ground wire connections too. Completely removing the worry and risk of soldering a pot casing, something I know many guitarists complain about having to learn to do.
I have been stocking Ground Bugs for a while, and they really are the perfect match for a pre-wired harness as they further help you with your installs. So I have set up a 10% off Ground Bug deals when purchased with a Home of Tone Signature Series pre-wired harness. This is an automatic discount code, so all you need to have is a Signature Series kit, and a Ground bug in your cart, and the discount will automatically be applied to the bug for you! Click HERE to view the Ground Bug listing (We recommend the 'Daddy Long Legs' Ground Bug for tighter Telecaster control cavities.
Do you make custom harnesses?
I'm afraid I do not offer a custom harness service. Only kits developed, tested and listed on my website are the available kits. So no custom schematics etc. If you happen to be local to my office, then I do carry out custom work in house, but in regards to shipped out pre-wired harnesses I do not offer custom kits. I am however happy to use different pot values or cap values within reason if you have a specific requirement that differs to the specs listed above. If this is relevant to yourself then please get in touch to discuss further to ensure the request is possible.
James' Home of Tone supports Blueprint For All Charity with a humble monthly donation on behalf of my supportive customers and myself. Thank you for helping make that happen
Blueprint For All Registered Charity Number 1102267. For more information on Blueprint For All and their work, please visit https://www.blueprintforall.org/
James' Home of Tone also supports 'Trees For Cities' charity with a monthly donation who are working hard to plant trees nationally and internationally within cities
Trees For Cities Registered Charity Number 1032154. For more information on Trees for Cities and their work, please visit https://www.treesforcities.org/
Order times
I usually make harnesses to order, due to the variety of spec options that could be chosen across the whole range. The current turnaround time for a harness orders is around 5-7 working days depending on quantity of orders in at the time and your order will be updated accordingly when it is dispatched. This turnaround time doesn't include the transit time. Thanks for your patience whilst I get your harness made!
Model Description
This harness is a standard '72 Telecaster Thinline model which featured a dual Wide Range Humbucker pickup configuration. It features either 500k volume and tone pots or 1MEG volume and tone pots, instead of the standard 250k used in single coil telecasters for example. The 500k or 1MEG option is to bring out more of the clarity and tonal response of a Wide Range humbucker pickup. Ultimately which you choose is down to personal preference, or perhaps pickup manufacturers recommendations. Some players prefer wide range humbuckers with 1MEG pickups, which were often used in the original 70s WRH equipped guitars built by Fender, for a bit more treble response, which of course can then be tamed with the tone control. But in more modern built applications, 500k is the standard. So I offer it with the choice of standard 500k, or 1MEG depending on your preference.
Please note, website example photo(s) may differ visually from the wiring kit you receive. This could be for a number of reasons but ultimately, don't be alarmed if you do spot differences between the stock photo and your supplied kit.
Options
With or without Treble Bleed?
First up, what does it do? A Treble Bleed kit takes the 'high' treble tone frequencies that are otherwise naturally lost through the sweep out of the circuit at the volume pot, and puts them back in the circuit as the signal leaves the volume pot. The treble frequencies are prevented from naturally bleeding out of the circuit as your turn your volume pot down. The result is a smoothed out treble and a more uniform tone from 1 to 10. Reducing the treble drop out as the volume pot rolls off. Some guitar players wouldn't be without a treble bleed, and many have never used one on their guitars. Truth is, it is very much personal preference. If you like the idea of retaining treble as you roll your volume pot down, then a treble bleed is for you! As standard my treble bleed mod spec is a .001uF capacitor and a 120kOhm resistor wired in parallel.
Pot value/Spec
I offer this kit with some different pot specs, but which do I choose you ask? This choice may be decided by which style of pickups you have for example. Vintage WRH, CuNiFe WRH etc are very often paired with 1MEG pots, they help bring out the full tonal range of these unique pickups. Some of the modern WRH pickups are actually more like a traditional PAF humbucker just under WRH covers, and they're often paired with 500k pots. Essentially, there is no right or wrong here, it's down to what you prefer or how you like your guitar to sound.
Solid or split shaft comes down to what style/size of control knobs you have. Traditionally '72 Tele Thinlines had solid shaft pots with control knobs that secure in place via a grub screw. These are 6.35mm solid shaft sizes. If you prefer to fit alternative style control knobs, push-fit for example, then perhaps consider the split shaft option which is 5.95mm 24 spline.
Fitting notes
I have intended for my wiring harnesses to be as simple as possible to install to your '72 Telecaster Thinline, as well as writing in depth fitting guides, how-to instructions documenting the step by step process as well as a simple to follow wiring diagram. But here are some important spec and fitting notes that will hopefully help you assess whether the kit is suitable for your guitar or what is required to allow it to fit correctly.
Will the pots fit my pickguard
The components I use in my Signature Series wiring kits are for the most part, USA imperial specification. If you're fitting this harness to a far east built guitar such as a Squier or similar brand, then you may have to widen the holes in the body to accommodate for these imperial measurement pots and switch. The CTS pots have a mounting thread shaft diameter of 0.370" / 9.4mm so I recommend for ease of install a 0.394" / 10mm pot mounting hole.
Centre to centre measurements between components are -
Centre of Switch to volume pot - 53mm
Centre of volume pot to centre of tone pot - 50mm
These measurements for my templates were taken from a USA Fender telecaster control plate. I do allow for some 'give' in the wire lengths between components but if your pickguard measurements are drastically different to those noted about, just let me know your centre to centre measurements and I'll make it to suit that for you.
What control knobs will fit?
As there is a few different pot options on this, I will need to detail those below for you.
The Split Shaft pot specs uses CTS Split shaft pots which have an adjustable 0.248" / 5.95mm / 24 splines. You will need control knobs that suit these measurements and secure to the pot via push-fit. But, if you wish to use grub screw style control knobs then the kit can be ordered along with a pair of solid shaft brass conversion sleeves. These fit onto the split shaft post and convert it to 0.248"/6.30mm solid shaft for you.
The solid shaft pot specs uses CTS Solid Shaft pots which have an solid shaft diameter of 0.248" / 6.30mm and require a control knob that suit these measurements and secure to the pot via a grub screw.
Do not attempt to force fit smaller, metric/import spec control knobs onto the imperial USA spec pots, doing this can damage the pot.
The switch is an imperial spec 'CRL' brand item and requires a push-fit switch tip that will fit a 0.189" / 0.482mm switch shaft.
If you do require a US spec control plate or control knobs, I do carry a selection of popular options in stock and they can be viewed in the Control Knob & hardware categories on the store.
Will the jack socket fit my mount cup/plate?
Much like with the control knob and plate fitting notes, this will ultimately come down to where your guitar was made and/or what hardware it has already. The jack socket I use in this kit again is imperial specification, the outer thread diameter measures 0.367" / 9.32mm and ideally requires a 0.394" / 10mm hole to comfortably mount. If you have a threaded electrosocket style jack cup, you will need the imperial thread pitch version. The jack comes provided with washers and mounting nut
Specs
- CTS '450' Series +/-10% Tolerance audio taper pots - Split or solid shaft 1MEG or 500k options
- .022uF 'Yellow Mustard' type tone capacitor
- Gavitt USA made cloth covered 22AWG wire
- 20AWG Tinned copper ground
- CRL 3 way spring loaded lever switch
- Pure Tone multi contact jack socket
- Soldered using R-Tech Premium Lead-Free (Sn95.5Ag3.9Cu0.6) 22swg Solder wire
RoHS Compliant
Please note - wiring kit does not include new control knobs/switch tip/pickguard etc but does include the pot/jack mounting nuts and washers and switch mounting screws.
Why these spec parts over others available?
Simply put, component choice has been one of the most important parts of my product development. I have worked on guitars for many years, and built these kits professionally since 2015, and as a result have been able to see and experience working on the majority of components available on the market. In my findings, A/B testing and more, I have found the components I decided on for my Signature Series to be the most reliable, best tolerance and great functioning parts to use to help customers get the most out of their instruments. I use CTS '450' series premium spec pots as they have a tight tolerance, and will consistently provide me with accurate value, as well as very solid build quality. I use trusty 'Mustard' style polyester film 'tone' capacitors as in my opinion they simply can't be beat for great value, solid construction, solid lead-outs, super tight tolerances and reliable tone/function. I would personally much rather use a trusty Mustard for example over something like a paper in oil, as from experience that are so much more reliable to use. This is from carrying out a lot of A/B testing, both tonally, as well as armed with the multi-meter for testing values and actual tolerances, as well as handling them to test construction quality for long lasting reliability in use. I use the brilliant 'Pure Tone' Multi Contact Jack sockets as they are incredibly reliable, due to their additional contact points for both tip and sleeve. I use CRL, Oak and Switchcraft brand switches across the range as these are built very well, with care will last for many years to come and have long since provided me with reliable use professionally. All kits are wired up with quality USA made Gavitt wire, it's great to work with, super consistent gauge and provides me with a very reliable quality item for my kits. I totally understand that with anything guitar, it is subjective, but I have, with an open mind, thoroughly tested a broad variety of components over the years and these have all become the items I trust to use every day.