Dual footswitch grounding issue

[zimlen]

Hey guys

I've built a stompbox with a momentary switch (tap tempo for a Dunlop EP103 delay) and a latching switch (to switch modes on a Boss Angry Driver).

Both switches work as expected when isolated, however when housed in the same enclosure, the EP103 fails to pass audio. With both switches outside of the enclosure, and the sleeve/ground lugs of the mono jacks wired together, the EP103 also shuts down. I'm not sure how to get these switches working in the same enclosure!

For the EP103, I'm using a SPST NO footswtich wired to each lug of a mono jack. The EP103 recommends a MXR M199 footswitch. For the Angry Driver I'm using a DPDT footswitch, with a pole and throw wired to each lug of a mono jack. Boss recommends a FS-5L, FS-6 (in latching mode) and FS-7 (in latching mode) footswitches.

Not sure what to do from here. Isolate the sleeve jack connections from the enclosure somehow?

Any advice much appreciated!

[nocentelli]

Not sure what to do from here. Isolate the sleeve jack connections from the enclosure somehow?

Yep, that's it. I have seen people suggest using a plastic or rubber grommet -type arrangement, or carefully painting several layers of durable paint around the edges of the drilled socket-hole that will contact the jack socket. Carefully applied electrical tape can suffice if you're careful.and don't mind the look. Otherwise, you'll need a plastic enclosure OR plastic ("isolated") jack sockets, but I'm guessing you don't want to buy more new parts.

[ElectricDruid]

I'd replace the jacks you've got in your box with plastic ones so that the two switches are isolated form each other. A couple of plastic jacks isn't going to be a big cost.

[zimlen]

Thanks for the tips guys.

I was going to use stereo jacks and connect to the tip and ring, but went with plastic jacks. Everything working fine now.