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MAC 4100 with sticky power pushbutton-best solution?

Greg Nal

Greg Nal

Audio Wizard Wannabe
Subscriber
I'm cleaning up my MAC 4100, the wood "plinth" was crunked so I have a local carpenter making solid walnut replacement pieces. Overall it works well but the power pushbutton is hard to press and slow to respond. Short of using a power strip and ignoring it (switch works well just not smoothly functioning), or changing the switch for one of the lesser used pushbuttons which works better (not sure if the switch ratings are the same), what is the best way to troubleshoot the switch to restore its function?

I have yet to use any DeOxit/contact cleaner/lubricants and would appreciate suggestions for working this kind of switch. Thanks!

Greg
 
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I've had much luck with Deoxit and patience. Liberally apply, but not flood the switch. Clean up residue from the surrounding area, and let it dry for a few hours. Start working it through with more light applications after that until she's like new.

That is, unless the switch got bent from someone carelessly moving the unit. Removal and straightening of the switch may do the job. Otherwise, I don't know how likely you are to find an exact replacement.
 
I keep having to go back to the sticky on DeOxit to figure out what product is best when. Thanks for the help. G
 
Have had a buildup of "smudge" collect on a switch before that caused it to want to stick because it was tight to one side of the faceplate insert.

Had to remove the faceplate, clean the button and insert off and ended up lightly filing the tight side for some extra clearence.
 
c_dk said:
Have had a buildup of "smudge" collect on a switch before that caused it to want to stick because it was tight to one side of the faceplate insert.

Had to remove the faceplate, clean the button and insert off and ended up lightly filing the tight side for some extra clearence.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the tip:thumbsup: as I have a sticky power button on my 4100 to. Spraying it out didn't help so I'll give this a shot.
 
Just a note: I filed the insert hole not the button. The button is pressed on but is sometimes difficult to pull off and the switch plunger gets very thin. That's why I pull the faceplate and while it is off you should check the lamps for the radio dial. When they get a black coating inside they will fail soon.
 
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