Problem with input jack - loose tension

Bullitt5135 · #1 02-28-2011, 08:58 AM

...on my GK 700RBII. The tension on the input jack is really loose. It barely wants to hold onto the cable jack. Is it safe to mess with the prongs inside the jack? And do I need to remove the cover for that, or do I need to unplug the amp and go at it through the jack hole.

And yes, this is a real issue, not just an excuse to use the term jack hole.

faulkner1953 · #2 02-28-2011, 09:15 AM

If you mean that the plug is loose in the jack when you plug in your cable, Then what needs to happen is the prong inside the jack needs to be bent slightly to the center. If it's an open jack, that will be easy. If it's enclosed, the task will become more difficult. Be sure to remove power from the amp, and open the cover and have a look at the back side of the jack. Maybe it'll be easy to get to. I suppose you could try to get to it through the open jack hole, but that sounds like an exercise in frustration to me. I've tightened a few jacks in my time. It doesn't take much to make a difference. Good luck.

Bob Lee (QSC) · #3 02-28-2011, 10:47 AM

If you can get at the prong that is contacts the plug tip, you can bend it a little as faulkner1953 mentioned. Don't overdo it, and if the jack keeps loosening and you keep having to get in and bend the contact, consider replacing the jack. Sometimes they get fatigued and lose some elasticity; higher-quality jacks tend to hold up better in this regard.

Bullitt5135 · #4 02-28-2011, 11:57 AM

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm pretty sure it's an enclosed jack -- I've read that the GK's have plastic jack modules that can be a pain to buy/replace. I'll see if I can get in there with a tiny screwdriver...

Foz · #5 02-28-2011, 12:03 PM

A dental pick works pretty good...

http://www.pjtool.com/7pcdentalpicks...edhandles.aspx

faulkner1953 · #6 02-28-2011, 04:13 PM

I'm not familiar with the exact jack in this amp, but any replacement jack that would physically fit in the location should work, unless it's a board mounted jack. (surely not).

Bullitt5135 · #7 03-01-2011, 06:18 PM

Update: I spent a bunch of time trying to bend the prongs inside the jack. No dice. I'm going to have to replace the jack.

Since the jack is soldered into the circuit board, it's not such an easy DIY fit (ie RadioShack part). As a quick fix while I wait for parts from GK, can I swap out the input jack with the tuner jack (prong pattern appears the same). My neighbor repairs old receivers as a hobby, so I think this would be a quick operation for him. What do you think?