Metal DC Jack Question

[Lgmlgm76]

Hello, I have a metal dc jack that shorts when I plug in the adapter but when the jack isn't attached to the metal enclosure, and is free floating, the pedal works fine. Also, there are 3 solder posts on this jack. What's the 3rd one for?

Besides insulating the jack from the enclosure with shrink-wrap or something, what's the best approach to fix this? I'll probably be using the plastic insulated jacks next time. Thanks in advance!

[EBK]

You may be able to find insulating shoulder washers that will provide the isolation you need.

The third terminal is likely for a battery switch.  When you insert a plug into the jack, it pushes the switch open, disconnecting your battery (if you opt to use one).

Welcome to the forum!

[madbean]

The best approach is to not use it at all, IMO. You might be able to insulate it from the enclosure but it's a failure point waiting to happen. The third solder tab is likely for a battery + connection.

[EBK]

Yeah, I'm going to defer to Brian's suggestion.  For the cost of the shoulder washers with shipping, you could simply buy a plastic DC jack.

[Lgmlgm76]

Yeah, I'm going to defer to Brian's suggestion.  For the cost of the shoulder washers with shipping, you could simply buy a plastic DC jack.

The best approach is to not use it at all, IMO. You might be able to insulate it from the enclosure but it's a failure point waiting to happen. The third solder tab is likely for a battery + connection.

Makes perfect sense, I'll just grab a plastic one, thank you both for the swift replies. I just built my first Madbean pedal, Weener Wah, and it's superb! Side question: (Maybe should be a separate post) But how does The Laureate compare to the original, and is it based on the 1993 Natural OD?