[Hallicrafters] DeOxit on wafers

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

On 7/18/05, Barry H <barry_hauser at juno.com> wrote:
 
> 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.

Barry, you've just explained quite well the situation I had with my
SX-28A. It makes sense that, due to the orientation of the switch
itself and the way things are crammed in there, I 'applied' too much
to the edge (hell, I soaked it) and caused the problem. You could
speculate that having a larger number of wafers would also compound
the problem.

> 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.

Mine never loosened up completely, although it went from being
immovable to switching with difficulty.
 
> 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.

It's been a number of years, but I either received printed
instructions or spoke with someone on the phone about the possibility
of using too much. I seem to recall that they made DeOxit swabs as
well as a pen applicator of some sort, specifically because of this.
They sent me a sample pack, I bet the swabs are still in it.

I think it was John from Mass. over on the R-390 list who had the
chemical cure to reverse the problem.

~ Todd/'Boomer'  KA1KAQ