How to Diagnose a Crackle From a Fender Rhodes Amplifier

When you have a vintage piece of audio equipment, like a Fender Rhodes amplifier, eventually it will start to crackle or have static sound. Usually, when a Fender Rhodes Amplifier develops a crackle it is because one of the connectors isn’t able to fully connect due to a buildup of dust and dirt within the unit. Follow these steps to take apart the Fender Rhodes amplifier and thoroughly clean it. When you are done, the connection should be restored and that annoying crackle should disappear.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Screwdrivers (flat head and Phillips) in different sizes
• Denatured alcohol
• Cotton cloth or sponge
• Aerosol contact cleaner for electronics

1. Gather your tools. Choose a workspace where you’ll have plenty of room to spread out the pieces of the amplifier.
2. Turn the Fender Rhodes amplifier off and unplug the unit. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the excess energy to drain off to avoid the possibility of relieving an electrical shock.
3. Inside a Fender Rhodes Amplifier Remove the Fender Rhodes amplifier's back panel.
4. Remove all the connector plugs from the power supply and the circuit box. Remove the circuit box from the amplifier wall. Take off the box's cover and remove the circuit board.
5. Dip the cloth or sponge in the denatured alcohol and scrub the metal areas where the connectors plug in.
6. Spray the contact cleaner inside the circuit box where the outside knobs connect.
7. Allow the amplifier to dry completely and reassemble your Fender Rhodes amplifier .

Tips & Warnings

• It’s a good idea to have a container ready so you can put screws and small parts in one specific place. Have several small containers on hand so you can keep the screws and pieces from various parts separate.
• It’s a good idea to take a picture before you disassemble a part so when it’s time to reassemble it you’ll be able to see how it’s supposed to look.
• When working with older audio equipment it’s important to keep in mind that there is a possibility of receiving a strong shock if the equipment hasn’t been unplugged and the energy stored in the transistors hasn’t been allowed to drain off.
• Only use denatured or 100% alcohol to clean old electronics. Never use anything mixed with water or chemicals.

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