Cleaning the wafer switches, etc. Best methods.]

[Craig Roberts]

Rob asked if I use the 100% or 5% DeOxit solution when cleaning contacts 
and whether or not I follow up with Caig's PreservIT .

Well, I use the 100% solution in the pen and syringe. The contacts in 
our old gear are usually very heavily oxidized and filthy and the 5% 
stuff doesn't quite cut it (literally). I use Caig's ProGold solution 
after cleaning with DeOxit since it provides a slight cleaning action of 
its own, plus has the preservative qualities of PreservIT.  I think 
PreserveIT would be better for new equipment (or at least newer than our 
ancient boatanchors).

Here's another tip:  go to your drug store and buy a supply of 
interdental brushes. They're tiny nylon bristle brushes you'll find in 
the mouth care/toothpaste section.  These can be dipped in DeOxit and 
used to scrub out tube socket pins.  Wiping the tube pins themselves 
with DeOxit is a good idea, too.  You'll be amazed at how many problems, 
especially intermittents, this 20-minute procedure will cure.

Oh -- a warning:  NEVER use TarnX or similar oxidation remover on silver 
contacts.  The action of these liquids will often destroy the very 
fragile plating on the contacts, leaving an easily corroded base metal 
exposed.  TarnX might work okay if you have the means to immediately and 
thoroughly rinse it off the metal, but that's rarely the case. Even 
then, I wouldn't risk it.

Simple Green is another oft-used cleaning product that, unless 
completely rinsed off, can eventually ruin your radio.

I've found that for general cleaning of old radios -- chassis, panels 
and cabinets, that is -- the safest and most effective cleaner isn't 
something exotic from a bottle or can, it's simplly a mild detergent, 
water and elbow grease.

Sorry, I don't mean to preach. I'm just trying to save y'all from the 
nasty effects of mistakes I made early in my restoration career

73,

Craig
W3CRR

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