Mesa Boogie Walkabout problem.

[xlrogue6]

DeOxit is vastly superior to the stuff from the hardware store, but tends to be at best a temporary fix for the oxidized switching contact problem. Best fix is a add the loop bypass switch that's now a standard feature on the Walkabout--an easy job for any tech who knows what they're doing.

[tncaveman]

I have been using the CRC cleaner for a long time with good results.  I now use the Deoxit.  I think it works a little better on pots.  But the CRC is great on jacks.  They have a follow up spray too that's a lubricant that helps keep the plugs and jacks operating well.
 
Stephen

[keith_h]

Peter,
I'm surprised you couldn't find it at your Radio Shack. It should be in the section that none of your clerks would go into. You  now the one with the electronics parts. :-)  
 
Looking at the spec's the CRC should be fine for the connectors. I would not try to use it on pots though. As Stephen mentioned there is a DeOxit  version that comes with a separate contact lubricant. I've used it on some automotive connectors and it seemed to help.  
 
Keith

[cozmik_cowboy]

...the one with the electronics parts. :-)
 
:-(  Consists of 5 small drawers of caps.  Sounds like you're fortunate enough to still have an old-school RS, where you used to be able buy everything you need to build a radio (my brother did it when we were kids) - and employees geek enough to give you instruction!
 
Peter

[keith_h]

Not sure about everything to build a radio. I mean they don't even have a tube tester. Thankfully I do.
 
Keith

[xlrogue6]

So the problem with my Walkabout(or one of them at least) turns out to be the switching contacts on the input jacks. I'm going to change them out to the current arrangement of one jack and an active/passive switch later today (unless it turns out to be easier to sub in Switchcraft 12A jacks, which take at least a couple of decades to develop these kind of problems!). Obviously, this only applies to older units like mine with 2 inputs.

[xlrogue6]

So it is indeed easier (in my estimation, anyway) to replace the Cliff jacks with Switchcrafts rather than installing a switch (I like the aesthetic better as well). If you go this route, you'll need the 12L long bushing shorting jacks and the S1029 insulating shoulder washers that make the Switchcrafts fit the Cliff holes perfectly. Additional benefit is that the jack nuts can now be tightened with a regular nut driver instead of finagling them with needle nose pliers. Be sure to use a lockwasher behind the shoulder washer in the rear and the chrome dress washer over the one in the front so the jack doesn't loosen.