I recently acquired a Kriesler Stereogram Model 11-104 and it seems to work fine except for the volume. Twisting the volume knob doesn't have much effect on the volume at all, and it rises and drops almost randomly. The only thing moving the knob does it cause some static and pops to occur. Would this be the pot at fault, or something else?

Opm881,

Most of my old radios needed the volume control removed and cleaned; sometimes some wiggling back and forth can help. But if you know how to remove it, safely, then a proper clean is best.
I have a 11-104 up and running properly, so if you wish to check voltages around the pot ...... let me know.
For those who may be interested ...there is a '11-104B' for sale on ebay, which I am assuming is a Kriesler. Search on 11-104B. Seller isn't sure of the brand, but the cabinet it is identical to my Kriesler 11-104. Not sure what 'B' means.

Cheers,

That eBay item is categorized under Antiques and the seller has set the starting price at $100. Here's the link:

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Vintage-Record-Player-and-Radio-Unit-/150589716164
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What do you guys use to clean pots? I've heard WD40 mentioned by a guy who has done repairs and restos for decades, but I'm not sure if that's really the best stuff available.

His other suggestion is to drill a small hole in the back of the pot, if necessary, to squirt the cleaner into.

GTC et al,

I tend to disassemble the pot completely and clean it dry; specifically, the internal contacts are sometimes loose and/or corroded => rub with emery paper and tighten; wipe or rub down the conductive/resistive strip (gently).

Cheers,

How does one take apart the pot to clean it? I would presume I would desolder the wire on the contacts, but besides that I have never tried to clean a pot(never had the need to).

Usually the rear of the pot is removed by bending back its metal lugs. In some designs you also have to remove a circlip to withdraw the wiper and shaft. Stereo pots are more complicated. Start at the back and play it by ear!

Sometimes CRC (electrical one) is worth a try as is circuit board cleaner if you can get it in to the track. Often with the older type that does involve removing the cover.

If its too bad it will be easier to replace it , unless it's a tapped type. They can be refurbished.

Sue I note Daylesford. If you know Paula from the second hand shop? I have her Astor Tablegram here, that I have tried to contact her about.

Marc

Thanks. CRC electrical parts cleaner sounds more appropriate than WD40, which may have been a slip of the tongue.

Oil-based sprays are good lubricants and perhaps even good cleaners but they are not so good where it is important to keep dust out.

Graphite is hard to get these days in a fine enough powder to be useful and its conductivity probably makes it unsuitable.

Contact cleaners and silicon based sprays are a better choice. They clean well and don't attract dust or build up grime.