Radio switches go bad over time?

[pedalinbob]

i have a small panasonic radio that is at least 10 years old. the volume (doubles as an on/off switch) has for some time become horribly scratchy. the scratchy noises are LOUD when dialing in the volume. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif
nothing i have done has helped.

so i just replaced it with another cheapie. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

do these controls have a shelf life, so to speak? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/icon3.gif

Bob

 

[K-T]

I can imagine switches getting weary with time, dirt collecting inside of them, etc. When searching for some switches for a light project I found out that most (quality-brand) switches vary depending on how often they can be switched and a good contact is made - the numbers are huge, thus it doesn't matter for the average user.

Klaus.

 

[avusblue]

Unplug it (or take the batteries out) and turn it on and off rapidly, sweeping across the volume range. If you do it a whole bunch of times it should clean the contacts that are causing the noise. Of course if you can open it up and give it a shot of electrical contact cleaner, all the better. Good luck.

 

[Steve K]

I've had the same problem in the past. Your best option might be to spray some solvent into the pot and hope it clears up the problem. Check with a high end audio store regarding which solvent to use. There is some stuff made expressly for this purpose.

good luck,

Steve K.

 

[MrThompson]

Use Caig Deoxit. Do not use the cheap tv tuner cleaner that is sold at the Shack.

 

[pedalinbob]

i tried the suggestion of turning it on and off rapidly--and it has helped some in the past. i will try it again, as well as to see if i can find some electrical contact cleaner.

i hate to waste a perfectly good radio--though it only cost about $15.

thanks for the info!

Bob

 

[louie]

2 basic failure modes in electronics here - capacitor failure has allowed DC into the audio, which is highly audible when the volume control is turned; more common, the resistive element is simply worn out. Spray cleaners sometimes temporarily help, and they do clean away dirt if that is the problem, but if the element is worn out, the only cure is a new pot. My guess is that the $15 radio is worn out! Unless you have spare pots and like to replace 'em, your move was the best.

 

[pedalinbob]

good info, thanks Louie.

Bob

 

[avusblue]

Another option (if you really want to preserve your $15 investment) is to install an inline lamp switch in the power cord and use that to turn the radio on and off -- leaving the volume knob set where you want it. This is assuming it's running on AC power, of course.

Cheers,

Dave