Output Jack: Noisy due to buildup inside...how to clean?

[orangecountycarl]

Hi Y'all, :wave:

I don't mean corrosion where the wiring connects with the jack, but where the cable makes contact inside the jack.

Here's my dilemma. I have a hollow body acoustic/electric, F hole jazz guitar
which has the output jack in the traditional place (like a Les Paul).

After years of storage (after years of use), when ever I have the instrument cable plugged in, I will get horribly loud crackling and I'm postitive it's due to the inside of the jack being dirty (the contact between the plug and the jack including the tip). This occurs when the cable is jiggled....which will happen when you play (you don't stay perfectly still).

Taking out the jack and replacing would be a major chore due to the wiring inside the body....no panel like on a solid body.

What is the best way to clean the inner sides of the jack? Should I try to find a wire brush and move it in and out of the jack? Or is there some type of solution that I could put on a Q-Tip and slide inside?

Thanks for any help!

Carl

 

[Artie]

Re: Output Jack: Noisy due to buildup inside...how to clean?

Caig Labs Deoxit is about the best there is, (IMHO). I use it for jacks, switches, pots, etc. You may want to try to burnish the contact first, though. Perhaps some extra-fine sandpaper, like 1200 or similar wrapped around a pencil might do it.

Then apply the Deoxit. Be careful not to get any Deoxit on the wood finish. I believe its base is mineral oil. May not hurt anything, but just to be safe.

 

[muttonchopsrule]

Re: Output Jack: Noisy due to buildup inside...how to clean?

if it crackles when you move or wiggle the jack, you should also check to make sure the wires for that jack aren't loose, if you haven't already.

 

[orangecountycarl]

Re: Output Jack: Noisy due to buildup inside...how to clean?

Thanks Y'all !!

Mutton, that was the first thing I checked....the cables and connection.
They were OK! I got rid of my 30 year old cords last year and bought new ones.

Artie, thanks again....the Caig Labs cleaner appears to be EXACTLY what I need. :arms:

 

[Pandemonium]

Re: Output Jack: Noisy due to buildup inside...how to clean?

I do what ArtieToo said, sandpaper and pencil. I use 600 grit.