[sdiy] goop out of a pot

[Dave Magnuson]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Dump Static" <xpandrew at ph.k12.in.us>
To: <synth-diy at dropmix.xs4all.nl>
Sent: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 11:01 AM
Subject: [sdiy] goop out of a pot


> When wiring up a pot (Alpha) the other night there was a little extra
> puff of smoke.  When I tested my work the pot didn't work at all.  I
> removed it from the panel and there was some clear, thin oily-type stuff
> that had apparently come out of it.
>
> I'm guessing it's the lube from the pot?
>
> Is this just a bad pot or is there something I did?  AFAIK I didn't
> touch anything besides the wiring connectors with the iron...
>
> Drew


Hi Drew,

Was the circuit powered while soldering?  If so, that was your problem - it 
will short the pot to ground with your iron.

It's pretty tough to damage a pot while soldering - a lot more difficult 
than an IC, etc.  Maybe a drip of solder fell into the pot body through the 
slot in the back?    That could also short it out and cook it.

Your guess is probably right - it's most likely lube that oozed out.   I've 
had a few batches of alphas that were a bit "oily", but they worked fine.

Dave Magnuson