Mixer Conole Fader Cleaning

[len-morgan]

I got a used mixer console about a year ago that I am only now getting around to setting up in my (almost complete) studio. Yesterday, when I was trying to figure out how to work the thing (WAY too many buttons and knobs to figure out when you're used to "mixing in the box"), I noticed that some of the knobs were a little noisy as they were adjusted.

What is the best (and safest) way to clean these? Can I use spray on contact cleaner through the top of the mixer (i.e., sprayed where the shaft goes into the body of the pot) or is replacement of the pot the only way to go?

Thanks,

len

[Aaronw]

For pots, first off, give them a good exercise (turning them back and forth). On pots, you can use a spray, if you use just a little bit. But if they are really bad, I would replace them.

As far as faders...DON"T use the spray!! If you do, you'll have to pull out each one and manually clean them, then relube them with the correct lube.

For Faders...Real faders like P&G (not solder on like mackie), you need 2 types of lube. You need a silicone oil for the rods, and you need a teflon dry spray for the faders.

[Aaronw]

Here's a link to fader maintenance as well as the source for the lubes for faders (about 1/3 down the page).

http://www.manquen.net/audio/docs/Fader ... edures.htm