Loose Tubes

[brewdude]

How does one re-tension the tube sockets to fit tighter on the tube’s pins?
I think that the loose tube is vibrating (combo cab) and becomes mechanically microphonic and amplified.
By the way, this a seven pin socket, if that makes a difference.

[pompeiisneaks]

After ensuring you've drained the caps, get a needle type pick and go into the pins from the top where the tube goes in and pry gently from the outer edge to push them back towards the center. This works, but only a few times before it ends up breaking the pins. At some point you may just need to buy a new socket, though.

~Phil

[brewdude]

Thanks. I figured it was obviously simple... yet full of potential pitfalls.

[66tele]

I use a dental pick because they have a very fine tip that will fit between the socket and the pin gripper......and, being a dental pick, they are made of very strong stainless steel and won't break.

[brewdude]

Thanks. Sounds like good advice.

[SoulFetish]

I made this tool using a stainless steel heavy gauge needle inserted into a hardwood dowel. Or this solder helper tool

8C4D3630-B0DD-4924-95FD-FFA70F4C8BAA.jpeg

Carefully wedge the needle in between the side of the socket terminal and the wall of the phenolic, then Carefully use the pin as a lever just enough to tension the sides towards the opposite wall. Often you only need to do it to one side

[brewdude]

A picture is truly worth a thousand words.
I hope to get a chance to give this a try this weekend.
Thanks.