Has anybody tried this with their pots?

[fantom1]

I was thinking about taking of the cover of the pots in my historic without un-soldering them (Im not too handy with a soldering iron) and putting in the "guts" of a CTS pot. Has anybody done this succesefully?

 

[Mr. Z]

I've never tried that, but just putting CTS pots in would seem to be a lot less of a hassle.

 

[fantom1]

yes, but I don't have a soldering iron, and even if I did, I haven't used one before and don't really want to spill any hot metal on my guitar.

 

[Flamed93+]

If you don't want to unsolder the pots, pay someone else to do it. I can't see doing what you described. It reminds me of a boss I used to have. Great at taking stuff apart...not real good at putting stuff back together. I just mean I think you'll wind up with a mess, & have to pay someone to replace the pots anyway.

 

[Tonefiend]

Take it to a shop and have them replaced. I know a good one in San Marcos ;\

 

[dragon]

fantom1, you'll have to unsolder at least the one terminal lug on the gibson pot that grounds the carbon element to the pot casing, so seems like there's no way around it. Just spread a towel over the back of your guitar if you're worried about the solder, or, take it to a recommended shop by players you know.

 

[hivoltage]

You should just find something to practice solder on. It becomes easy, fast. Just remember heat the joint and let the solder flow. It's an invaluable trade to learn if you like messing around with guitars! ;\

 

[Maple & Mahogany]

pots and solder

Don't pull your pots apart! I've repaired pots on vintage pieces when a client absolutely wanted to save the original. It's tedious to do out of the guitar let alone in. As mentioned above you still need to desolder. Take your piece to a professional. I've seen burned cavities, solder blobs, cold joints and all sorts of shtuff from cowboys with hot irons. Stick to branding and leave the driving to the Ernhardts!