Amp cleaning n stuff

[errrrrl]

Been meaning to clean up my amps soon, dust is getting a little thick here and there. I was wondering what you guys use to clean your tolex and what not? Also is it better to get DeoxITFaderLube or regular DeOxit? I read somewhere that the Deoxfader lube is better for pots and what not but what is better to clean tube sockets with? Also DeOxit 5% or 100%? Thanks guys!

 

[napalmdeath]

Armour All for tolex!

 

[311boogieman]

I have been using Deoxit D5 forever. Can't really speak to the other flavors and brands. Although a buddy of mine on the Splawn forum just turned me onto a WD40 'Specialist' product that should be very similar. Designed for electrical contacts basically.

On my D5 canister it specifically says: "

Chemically improves metal to metal connections
More than a contact cleaner
Dissolves Corrosion
Improves Contacts
Protects Surfaces
Safe on plastics
Cleaner Audio"

that kind of stuff

 

[romanianreaper]

I use Deoxit with electronics, etc. I've used it for all types of things like cleaning bad pots, dirty connections, jacks, etc. Works great and most importantly it dries up in no time.

 

[CrazyNutz]

Deoxit D5 on your amp pots, sockets, plugs, etc...

I have not tried the Deoxit brand Fader lube, but I have tried other brand fader lube on pots. Don't do it on amps. It makes the pot turn too freely, and too easy to move your settings. It loses that friction you need on amp pots. Good however for guitar pots.

Another good product (Do not use on pots) is CRC QD Electronic cleaner, it drys fast and leaves no residue. You can get from the automotive section at walmart for a few bucks. Again do not use on pots, it will dry out the lube.

As for tolex, those Armor all cleaning wipes work great.

 

[VC4EverAgain]

Never thought about cleaning my amps.

 

[errrrrl]

Thanks guys for all the tips. Gonna order some products now!

 

[Snave]

Armour All for tolex!

Do not use Armor All on tolex. It leaves a layer of silicone which you'll have trouble getting off without solvent. Sure, it makes things shiny, but there's a reason amps don't come coated in oil.

Your safest bet is some kind of simple soap and hot water. If you're just dealing with dust then a wet towel would be fine.

 

[CrazyNutz]

^^^ I second that, I would not use straight armor all.

The cleaning wipes are ok because they leave very little (if any) residue behind, plus they are made for vinyl . Soap, and water works fine too, but you have more steps (soap wipe then rinse wipe)

 

[SQUAREHEAD]

Never thought about cleaning my amps.

Me neither,
I thought they were like self-cleaning ovens…

 

[Jeremy]

Not a fan of ArmorAll. I use the MusicNomad Amp Cleaner. Pretty awesome stuff!

 

[splawner]

Armour All for tolex!

Do not use Armor All on tolex. It leaves a layer of silicone which you'll have trouble getting off without solvent. Sure, it makes things shiny, but there's a reason amps don't come coated in oil.

Your safest bet is some kind of simple soap and hot water. If you're just dealing with dust then a wet towel would be fine.

Ya really... do not use Armor All on your amps tolex...I would not even use that garbage on my dash boards...lol

 

[jemplayer]

I just use goo gone if theres anything sticky and then wipe down with 409.

 

[SQUAREHEAD]

I have always used armour all, and I thought it was very good for tolex.
I know it’s a little oily but when it dries I always thought it was good protection.
Plus it looks great,
I guess I was wrong… actually, this is the first time I’ve ever heard anything negative about it.