Help!-Dealing with probable moisture problems in expensive bass.

[FatAndy]

The Fodera that my son is using is sending out a distorted signal and has a very 'scratchy pot'. A previous owner of this bass that I consulted, suggested that the problem is most likely due to moisture as we have had unprecedented humidity, rain and flooding here in Queensland recently. The bass has never been at all immersed or heavily rained on.

He believes that there is almost no chance that there are permanent problems with the electrics/pre-amp.

I am absolutely determined to not do even the tiniest amount of damage to this beautiful bass.

My questions are;

-Can I safely use tiny amounts of WD40 around the pots?

-Can I safely use a hairdryer on the cavity, without removing the board?

-Would it be ok to put a secure package of desiccant into the electronics cavity?

All feedback is much appreciated.

PS- He has tried changing batteries, numerous leads and numerous amps etc.

 

[i_got_a_mohawk]

Use an electrical contact cleaner, not WD40.

You are saying the signal is distorted, could it just be too hot for the inputs of the amps you have tried? Is there a level trim pot on the board?

 

[FatAndy]

Use an electrical contact cleaner, not WD40.

You are saying the signal is distorted, could it just be too hot for the inputs of the amps you have tried? Is there a level trim pot on the board?

The signal's not too hot, when I say distorted, I mean more like 'decayed', I will look into getting some electrical contact cleaner.

cheers

 

[johnk_10]

i'd use some caig deoxit. IMO, it's the best contact cleaner by far.

 

[Substandard]

do not under any circumstances use any head source.

If you think water has gotten into the control cavity, open it up and let it sit alone unused for a few days to dry naturally.

 

[TheSuzie]

Replace the pot? 8)

I have found that contact cleaners are usually only a temporary solution. Once a pot gets scratchy, it will tend to act up again at the worst possible time.

Besides that, the cleaners stink and are pretty toxic.

Peace,
S

 

[loinmute]

Can I safely use tiny amounts of WD40 around the pots?


Never ever do this to relieve pot scratch.

 

[FatAndy]

The problem fixed itself! Must have just dried out. It is back to it's normal, exquisite excellence.

Thanks for all help.

 

[Luckie]

i'd use some caig deoxit. IMO, it's the best contact cleaner by far.

Stuff is magic.

 

[line6man]

You might consider replacing the pots with new ones of the sealed variety.

 

[Munjibunga]

The problem fixed itself! Must have just dried out. It is back to it's normal, exquisite excellence.

Thanks for all help.

It heard all this talk of Caig Deoxit and got skeered.