4dpt ab switcher issues

[jjschessmaster]

Hello, I have a question that really feeds into reliability of switches / troubleshooting a pedal.  I made a dual ab box to basically switcheck between amp and effect box for preamp before running into the power amp.  In input one, split to two outputs, back to two inputs, out to one.  I took two ab boxes and wired on a 4dpt switch.  It works great...sometimes.  more often than not, there is an issue where I switch lines and then have to half stomp the switch a bunch until it engages then works without issue.  Has anyone had issues like this and can help me troubleshoot?

Thanks all, first post, love the support of this forum!

[stallik]

I've had this happen on a couple of pedals over the years and I recognise well your description of 'tickling' the switch to get it working. In both of my cases, replacing the switch sorted everything out. I've always thought that it was due to mechanical wear but there has been quite some conversation here regarding overheating the switch terminals when soldering. This can lead to switch failure

And welcome to the forum

[trixdropd]

I wager that you overheated the pins. otherwise, faulty switch

[duck_arse]

x-wings seem more prone to soldering overheat and melt, followed by bodgy functioning. the x-wings I've wrecked from too much heat I have don't have any epoxy seals like on the good "blue" types, so the lugs are more likely to move. and the lugs are larger, so hold the heat of the iron longer, and have huge holes, a temptation to try and fill with solder.

also welcome.

[jjschessmaster]

Thanks guys, got it all straight, it seemed to be the switch.  All works well now.  Funny thing I started the pedal a ways back and melted out the lugs, restarting I didn't pay much attention to too much heat and it showed