cleaning potentiometers (not paddles)

[USSEnterprise]

I have an old Fisher Stereo system, which has a powerful amp, but the balance control is screwy. I can't remove the pot, and its about 3x smaller than one in an Atari Paddle. Any suggestions for cleaning? WD-40?

[lustreking]

I've used TV Tuner Cleaner from Radio Shack.  Took all the crackle out of the pots on my 71/72 bass amp.  It also has a lube in it so they turn silky smooth now.  It seems expensive for such a small bottle, but it really worked like a charm, and the little bottle goes a long way.

-Steve

[danny_galaga]

i dont thinnk you want to use any lube type sprays like wd40. you could try contact/head cleaner. that stuff leaves no residue. i once managed to clean mildew off some ram with this gear (",)

[Ken Layton]

Never use WD-40 in a volume control. It was never designed for that and will ruin it. You can use the Radio Shack Tuner/Control cleaner lube spray nicely.

I am a professional and use MG Chemicals (www.mgchemicals.com) Nu-Trol Control Cleaner/Lube which is made specially for cleaning volume controls. It's catalog number 401B-140g. MG Chemical products are for sale to professionals only thru dealers like MCM Electronics and Mouser Electronics.