how-to on re-tensioning tube sockets

[dwp]

Hey I'm not having any luck on search finding the how-to on re-tensioning preamp tube sockets. I have an old Deluxe Reverb that has the re-occurring crackle, am pretty sure it is V-2. I'd like to try maintenance before replacing.
Thanks in advance, dwp.

(been doing the De-Ox, is beyond that now. Any new tube and a twist solves it for a while)

[navdave]

Small flat tip screwdriver is what I use just make sure you discharge your caps.

[jojokeo]

I have varying diameters of pin-like needle tools to larger ones like scratch awles or hole punches. The later are too large but my smaller pin-like tools are perfect and you get the idea. You just carefully push down into the socket pins from the side of the slitted openings and the taper of your tool gently sqeezes the socket pins closed. You don't have to go to crazy tight to get a good grip/fit on the tube pins. Afterwards, I always get out my contact cleaner and an old tube and squirt the cleaner in there and work the tube in and out a number of times to clean the pins good. Now they're tight and clean and ready to go back in service for a long time.

[HotBluePlates]

Wal-Mart also has cheap metal dental picks with insulated handles.

Still make sure you discharge the caps, and use a jumper to keep the positive terminal grounded if you don't have bleeder resistors.

[dwp]

hey thanks for the answers. I have an insulated dental pick but wasn't having any luck with the angle and the tube shield in the way. wasn't sure if there was any other magic trick. Will search for smaller straight spring metal or something.....

[HotBluePlates]

Or use some pliers to straighten the pick.

[jojokeo]

http://jewelry.shop.ebay.com/Jewelry-Design-Repair-/164352/i.html?_nkw=metal+pick&_catref=1&_fln=1&_trksid=p3286.c0.m282

[RicharD]

Some sockets (most) will allow you to change 1 or more pins in lieu of re-tensioning or replacing the entire socket.  This normally my "go to" solution.  Re-tensioning is only "just so good".  A piece of metal can only withstand so much bending before it loses resiliency.  Wiggling a tube may fix the problem short term, but in the long run it's wearing out the socket.