Taping wires to pickguard?

[mathias]

Hi all,

I figured this question was best asked on OSG forum because offsets tend to have the rhythm circuit, and I imagine other people have run into this with the long wire runs to the RC:

What do you use to tape wires into place on the back of the pickguard? Mine fit into the body fine, but I've got a middle (Strat sized) pickup on this Jazzmaster, and the rhythm circuit's wires + that pickup's wires get underneath it and prevent adjustment of the pickup height.

I was going to use masking tape, but I'm not sure that it will hold indefinitely.

For reference, the back of the pickguard is shielded with adhesive copper foil. (I did debate using a tiny rectangle of copper foil as tape -- this might be my best bet? It wouldn't actually have any continuity with the wires, so it should be fine?)

[Steadyriot.]

I'd use a few pieces of good masking tape.

[mathias]

I'd give that a try, but the masking tape I've been using recently hasn't done a very good job of sticking after a day or so. Granted, it does fine at masking off areas for paint and removing it without residue.

I'm just not sure what people use as a more permanent tape in guitars?

[Steadyriot.]

Other option would be paper packaging tape, I've seen guys use electrical tape and such but in my experience that turns into a gooey mess within a year.
That copper tape idea is not a bad one either, you could even tack it down with some solder for a permanent hold.

[JVG]

Don't over-think it. Masking tape is fine

J.

[B]

Don't over-think it. Masking tape is fine

J.

Perfectly said.

[jansenjazzman]

I agree with rest of the thread masking tape and if you want to age the tape to make it look old use some amber stain from Stew Mac.

[empyrean]

Not all masking tap is created equal too, some is just plain cheap and doesn't stick. Don't go for dollar store or the cheapest in the shop.

A good masking tape will stick under there for years, I've seen many vintage guitars with old masking tape still holding well under there.

[mathias]

Yeah. I don't feel like I've had a good roll of masking tape or blue painters tape for years. Hence why I asked. I'll try to hunt down something better.

No need to make it look vintage. This isn't a vintage instrument. Just one with too much wiring for its own good!

Thank you everyone for your helpful replies!