Dumb question (knob content)...

[ElectraPhoenix]

I've searched all over the internet, TB threads and Ebay... but to no avail. I have this question:

Is there no purchasable set of push-on knobs that will fit my solid-shaft Fender CTS pots?

Thanks.

 

[Slowgypsy]

Actually... probably not. Push on knobs usually go on shafts that are splined and split down the center. The splines (sort of gear things) lock with the knob so it doesn't just spin on the shaft. And the split down the center of the shaft is usually spread apart just a little so there's tension with the knob, which means it won't just fall off. Both these things... splines and split... are the mechanisms that work with push on knobs. Solid shafts are simply meant to be used with a knob that has a set screw in it. That set screw does the job of both the splines and split.

Question... why don't you want to use a knob with a set screw?

 

[darkstorm]

Nope, push ons are for split shaft. There are a variety of knobs with the little screws for use on solid shafts thru stores like musiciansfriend. What kind of knobs are you wanting looks and color wise?

 

[ElectraPhoenix]

I always seem to have problems with knobs that use set screws. They don't stay on, and they tend to dig into my pot's shaft and then the just won't stay on at all. I've tried several different knobs, before you ask. And I really see no point in replacing the current pots I have... they work fine and sound great. Keep in mind that this is my one and only bass that I own and use.

Now, would it be possible to find knobs that are push on, and will fit the split-shaft CTS pots (so still the 1/4" pots, but the split-shaft version)? Because then I can just stick those on and use a light type of glue to hold it on... that might work.

 

[Pilgrim]

First, try filing the tip of the set screw in each knob to a point - that may help it dig in and stay in place.

Second, put a drop of clear nail polish on the set screw threads before tightening it. That will keep it from backing out.

I'll bet the combined fixes will work.

 

[ElectraPhoenix]

Thanks very much for the tips; two questions:

What do I file the screw with? Just a regular metal file?

Also, do I just put the nail polish on the screw, then put it into the knob and tighten? I hope you get what I'm asking.

Thanks very much again for the advice.

 

[bassbenj]

Thanks very much for the tips; two questions:

What do I file the screw with? Just a regular metal file?

Also, do I just put the nail polish on the screw, then put it into the knob and tighten? I hope you get what I'm asking.

Thanks very much again for the advice.

My advice is to REPLACE the set screw! That is if it has a screw-driver slot as many do. Use an allen wrench style set screw which allows you to get more torque on it with a hex key. Use Loctite (use the milder versions so you can take the knob off if you need to without a huge hassle) on the setscrew to keep it locked in. And use a reasonable torque to tighten it.

Personally I've found set screw knobs (with allen set screws) to be FAR more reliable than the push-on style. The push-ons are either too lose and tend to fall off or too tight and when you try to pull the knob off the next time you either damage the bass finish prying it off or you pull the guts out of the pot! The whole idea of the push-on is not that they are "better" but that you can use molded plastic totally cheapo knobs instead of expensive machined and tapped ones.