[Hallicrafters] DeOxit on wafers

[Barry H]

Hi Gang:

I HAVE experienced that binding problem after using DeOxit in one or two situations.  I don't recall which switch on what equipment.

The flat surfaces of the phenolic wafers are fairly impervious, it's the cut edges that can absorb the stuff.  So, it depends on how much gets to the edges AND how close-fitting the switch wafer and rotor are in the first place -- and just how absorbant the phenolic is.  That material varies.

If there is extra clearance to start with, even if the phenolic swells a bit it won't bind at all.  In general, I think most switches have plenty of clearance.

After a while, the wafers did free up, however, if this happens to you, be careful not to force the switch because it's possible to break it.  Sop up any excess and either wait or (perhaps) use a hair blower to speed up the drying out process.  It may take a few hours -- or a few days to shrink back down.

If you can get a good look at the switch components before starting, you may be able to determine whether or not it's a close fit design or not.  Whenever possible, apply DeOxit to the rotor contacts and stationary contacts only - or just to the rotor and work the switch.

There are situations where you have no choice except to blast the thing.  If so, use a swab or something to sop up the excess as best you can.

Barry




John wrote:

I have soaked the phenolic wafers on every boatanchor
I have owned and have never had a bandswitch problem.
I am one of those who SOAK the wafers because I always
seem feel that MORE is BETTER. Drakes have those
wafers and I have six pieces of Drake gear with no
problem YET......

I have been told about the swelling repeatedly and do
not dispute it....I have just never experienced the
problem as of now. I wonder also if this is just
another of those ideas that are often repeated because
it has been repeated SO OFTEN.

I do not dispute the claim...I just have never had a
problem in Drake, Hallicrafters, National, Collins,
Johnson, Heath, Hammarlund or any other brand of gear.
73, John, K5PGW

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