27-08-2015, 09:17 PM
(27-08-2015, 04:24 PM)Nowhere-Man Wrote: I just got back from Maplins and am simply not happy with the pots they have. Too flimsy and modern. I also have a 3 inch shaft on mine and the lugs are much larger and more spaced. I decided to leave it and see if I can get a proper vintage pot and double pole switch. Unless maybe I can repair the old pot.
You may have to accept that the only replacement available to you today is going to be much more modern than you would like but you are not attempting to restore this set to its original condition - your posts have made this very clear - so why does it matter?
You may find something more to your liking here: http://www.partridgeelectronics.co.uk/17Cresistors.htm (scroll down to the bottom) but I haven't done an intensive search of their stock.*
As for component replacement where it is not possible (or advisable) to completely remove the original, I would always leave sufficient wire from the original to bend it back against itself to form a U shaped loop, repeat this on the new component and then hook the two together. Then squeeze together with pliers - both ends - to create a strong mechanical joint before soldering.
* This applies to all pots: if the spindle is longer than required, mark the correct length clearly on the shaft and then cut the spindle to length ensuring that the waste part of the spindle is securely held in a vice. Never, ever, hold the pot in the vice!
