Cleaning and repairing a vintage footswitch

When it comes to maintaining vintage guitar effect pedals, cleaning the footswitch is crucial for optimal performance. In this case, an old and dirty switch kept a pedal from working properly.

What tools do you need for cleaning?

To clean the footswitch in a vintage guitar effect pedal, you will need a few essential tools: a small screwdriver, contact cleaner, cotton swabs, and a soft cloth. These tools will help you safely remove any dirt or debris that may be affecting the footswitch's functionality. Note that this only works on these 8-prong switches and not on the more modern 3DPT switches

How do you clean the footswitch?

Start by carefully removing the back panel of the pedal using the small screwdriver. Once the back panel is off, locate the footswitch inside the pedal.

Gently and carefully remove the four screws.

There is a spring inside, thus if you do not hold down the back cover, it will jump towards you and you might lose the top cap (removed in this image) and the little contact rollers (see below).

 

Use the cotton swabs and contact cleaner to gently clean the contacts of the footswitch. Be sure to remove any buildup or residue that may have accumulated over time.

 

Left: dirty rollers, right: cleaned rollers.

 

Assemble and hold down the top cover firmly while screwing the four screws back in again.

Finally, measure the conductivity. Here it reads 12 ohm -- a good connection (the measuring prongs themselves are also a bit resistive)

Switching order:

1 --|*********|-- 8
2 --|              |-- 7
3 --|              |-- 6
4 --|..............|-- 5

1 and 2 are connected and 3 and 4 are connected. Switch the other way; 7 and 8 connected, and 5 and 6.

Why is cleaning the footswitch important?

Cleaning the footswitch in a vintage guitar effect pedal is essential for maintaining the pedal's performance. Over time, dirt and debris can build up on the contacts of the footswitch, leading to poor connectivity and functionality. After 40+ years, there is too much debris and dirt to function. Now it is good to go again for another 40 years!

How often should you clean the footswitch?

It is recommended to clean the footswitch in your vintage guitar effect pedal at least once after obtaining it. It most likely has NEVER had any work done to it. Of course, this can be done more frequently if you notice any issues with connectivity or performance. It won't be necessary to clean it every month but one can go for at least every one to two years to make sure it will not cut out on you while playing!

By following these expert tips for cleaning the footswitch in a vintage guitar effect pedal, you can ensure that your gear remains in top condition for years to come. Remember to handle your vintage pedals with care and consult a professional if you encounter any issues beyond basic maintenance.