Trident 88 - Fader Care and Maintenance; Fader Cleaning Levels; Fader Lubrication

Trident 88 Owners Manual 35
Trident 88 Master Channel Recall Sheet
Trident 88 Fader Care and Maintenance
Level 1
The fir t step is to use compressed air to blow as much dirt as possible out of the fader.
Figure 1: Start by blowing one end, and then the other. There is usually dust or debris in the fader that will come out easily,
and this usually would be all that is needed in terms of cleaning. Move the fader carriage to one end and blow air into the
slot aiming away from the carriage so that dust can escape through the slot. Then move the carriage to the opposite end
and blow air aiming the opposite way.
Using off the shelf cleaner/lube spray on the fader can actually worsen its condition, and it’s likely that the dust and debris
will be matted down and stick in the corners. This is not recommended for service. A fader might seem to work better for
a while using a cleaner/lube spray, but this won’t last and might lead to the need for a more substantial (and time consum-
ing) cleaning eort.
Note: Compressed air must be clean and dry. If an air compressor isn’t available, cans of aero-duster will work,
but they don’t last long
Level 2
If the initial “blowing out” process didn’t oer the desired results, it’s time to move on to use of chemical contact cleaner.
Some faders have lubricating grease applied by the manufacturer, while others employ a self-lubricating Teflon-type of
plastic. If used sparingly, chemical contact cleaner shouldn’t impact the self-lubricating type, but it will invariably wash
away lubricating grease. The goal is to avoid adding any more lubrication than is absolutely necessary - dust tends to fall
away from dry surfaces, but it sticks to oily surfaces.
After spraying contact cleaner, exercise the fader and then quickly
blow out the excess cleaner. This helps to spread the cleaner over
the entire fader surface, while the excess cleaner carries away
additional loosened dirt.
Level 3
The fader is still feeling a little rough?
Time to try a little lubrication. The key word is
“little” – use as little as possible. Depending on
the type of fader, use a precision dropper to
place just a few drops of lubrication in the fader,
or give it just a quick squirt. Exercise the fader and
then blow away the excess with compressed air.
Some oils react with plastic, causing it to break down. If there’s
any doubt, test it out on a spare fader fir t before applying. Be careful
not to damage the wiper, which can ruin the fader.
Certain faders use thicker grease that results in a “smoother” feel, and these may actually feel too loose
after lubrication. If this proves bothersome, use silicon or petroleum grease. Proper maintenance will keep
faders performing well for years and is essential to their longevity.