strat import 5-way switch??

On these sealed import switches..Are they functionally the same as the open fender type?? Mine is layed out bridge,middle,neck, contact ,contact,bridge,middle,neck...

http://www.premierguitar.com/Magazine/Issue/2009/Apr/The_Anatomy_of_the_Stratocaster_5_way_Switch_Part_III.aspx

With a fender type switch you can connect he coil split wires on a H/S/S to the 1 tab on out put side and when in bridge&middle it will short coil out in humbucker...

I have tried this on my switch..and hooked up wires to free lug..and it shorts it permanently. Hooked a meter to it and its short in bridge and bridge&middle...So Im guessing even though they have same number og lugs there not the same internally and cant do this simple wiring mod??

http://www.premierguitar.com/Magazine/Issue/2009/Aug/Stratocaster_Auto_Split_Mod.aspx

Dont know man. Theres so maky cheesy imports now. The ones with the metal box, even though they can be grounded to reduce noise, they are pretty crummy switches. They feel loose and eventually cause problems, especially if you overheat the contacts. I have one in a Squire strat I need to replace because it cuts out occasionally.

You really cant beat the standard open rotary type. You can actually see the contacts on both sides of the switch and figure out what contacts are being made. With those cheap box type you need to use a meter to figure out the leg configurations. Using a diagram on an unknown switch type is just pot luck in getting it right.

Try ohming it out with a meter and see if it confirms with any diagram your're using. Draw up your own diagram of what the contacts do in making and breaking contacts, then go from there. I know this can be a bit difficult for some to figure out but its no more than basic logic, on off switching and building a road map from one destination to annother. If you find the switch doesnt have all the connections needed for your project, get one that does.

I agree with WRG. If you must replace the switch get a good one. They can be repaired/cleaned as well. I know a local tech who recommends replacing the cheesy junque switch with a good one whenever the pickguard is off, working or not.

I think the one's that I have messed with have just been mirror image type contact arrangements, 1,2,3,com.com.3,2,1. The two center lugs will both be tied to the common I think.

Correct for the standard Strat style 5 way. The imports . I follow the advice of my mentor & put a good one in.