DIY - Expression System Preamp Replacement Instructions

ES Preamp Replacement Instructions:

1. Loosen the strings to have access to the preamp inside the soundhole and put a cloth on the top (bass side) to have somewhere to rest the preamp when it's removed.
2. Remove the control knobs by lifting straight up, as shown in the picture below.
3. Once you remove them, you'll see the black bushing rings with notches that hold the preamp to the shoulder of the guitar.
4. You will need to twist the bushings counterclockwise to loosen and remove the preamp. Some people use a credit card and cut out a notch to grab on the bushing and twist off; some do it with a thick pick (see picture below). Another possibility -- just be really careful -- is to use thin needle-nose pliers or a thin flathead screw driver to tap on the side of one the notches just to break it loose and twist them off. If so, cover up the sides with tape to try to avoid scratching. When removing the bushings, it's a good idea to hold the preamp with one hand to prevent it from falling inside the guitar. 
5. Replace the preamp with the new preamp by unplugging the cables and plugging them in the new one. Be sure to move the plastic spacer above the pots from the old preamp to the new one. 
6. For installation, reverse the removal instructions.

If you have any other questions, please contact Customer Service at 1-800-943-6782 or email us at [e-mail].