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Joined: May 2009 Posts: 26
Location: Vermont | Hi, I have a 1982 Anniversary (1657-7). When I plug it in I get a lot of static/crackling as soon as I turn the volume control higher than zero. The static doesn't seem to change (other than being louder) when I turn the volume control from 1 to 10. That is, it doesn't seem to be a dirty volume control (or tone control). Should I clean the 1/4" jack connector and the 1/8" pickup plug that plugs into the preamp? Should I clean the 1/8" jack connector in the preamp? How? What should I use as a cleaner? Any other thoughts or suggestions? Thanks. |
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Joined: February 2002 Posts: 1817
Location: Minden, Nebraska | Are you getting sound in addition to the noise?
Oxidation is common on controls and connections, especially in places where there is higher humidity. If the contacts aren't actually damaged, a jack connection can be cleaned by just inserting the plug and pulling back out rapidly and repeatedly for a minute. An oxidized pot can often be cleaned up by rotating it rapidly back and forth for a minute.
Electronic contact cleaner is available at places like The [Radio] Shack. But if the above procedures don't work, a cleaner may not do more. And it won't help at all if you have a bad pickup. |
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Joined: May 2009 Posts: 26
Location: Vermont | Yes. I do have sound. And the sound's volume changes with the volume control and the tone changes with the tone control. I'm guessing that the pickup is OK. Could a weak battery or poor battery connectors be a factor? |
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Joined: February 2002 Posts: 1817
Location: Minden, Nebraska | Could be a battery, yes. You can narrow it down by troubleshooting some things:
- does the problem exist with different amps?
- ... with different cables?
- ... with a new battery?
Might be a bad concentric pot if the pickup is okay.
The fastest solution seems to be taking it to a good tech if your own troubleshooting doesn't isolate the problem and you are not one to rewire it. |
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Joined: May 2009 Posts: 26
Location: Vermont | The problem exists with different amps and different cables. It's definitely something with the guitar.
I've changed the battery (what a pain).
Using isopropyl alcohol, I've cleaned my 1/4" cable plugs and the 1/8" plug from the pickup to the preamp inside the guitar.
The static is now much less pronounced. Thanks.
I still need to get me some "Deoxit" to clean the volume and tone controls and to properly clean my cables and plugs. Hopefully the Deoxit will do the trick. |
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Joined: October 2008 Posts: 639
Location: NW of Philadelphia | A health dose of tuner cleaner should do the trick. |
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