Need Tips On Hardware Care

[kimgee]

I just got out my SS1 after not playing it for about 6 months, and much to my dismay, the gold hardware has started to oxidize in a very noticeable way! In fact, the strap lug on the bridge end has started to turn green. The guitar is kept in it's flight case with desiccant packs in an air conditioned room. Also, the strings have a funky feel to them and have become very imbalanced output wise. This seems unusual to me. I would not expect this to happen with the way I have it stored. I sort of suspect some sort of negative reaction to the case's interior. It's the gray carpet like interior and red blanket that is standard on the Warwick flight cases. Anyone have any tips on preventing this sort of thing?

 

[Hoggles]

Sounds like there is just a lot of humidity, even with the AC and moisture packs. You can pick up humidity monitors pretty cheap on Amazon.

Maybe it's a reaction to the Silica packets? I dunno. I wouldn't think it's the case material. Haven't ever heard of there being an issue with those. I've also never stored basses with Silica packs inside the case and I live in a humid/rainy area. I use a few of those small moisture grabbers that come in a bucket. I keep them away from the basses, as they attract moisture.

I'd say the first thing you'd want to do, is to know exactly what the humidity is in that room. You want it no more than 55-60 max. Ideally 45-50.

 

[jester]

I'd say the first thing you'd want to do, is to know exactly what the humidity is in that room. You want it no more than 55-60 max. Ideally 45-50.

+1 to Hoggles, first thing I'd do is figure out what the room's humidity levels are.

 

[kimgee]

I just ordered a hygrometer to check the humidity level. I know it's going to be on the high side. I live in central Florida, and it's quite humid here. I have never had an issue before this however. I have read quite a few blogs and threads about desiccant packs now, and by far most people have had no issues, but I have seen a few reports of instances similar to what I am experiencing. I may end up buying a dehumidifier I suppose.

 

[jester]

I just ordered a hygrometer to check the humidity level. I know it's going to be on the high side. I live in central Florida, and it's quite humid here. I have never had an issue before this however. I have read quite a few blogs and threads about desiccant packs now, and by far most people have had no issues, but I have seen a few reports of instances similar to what I am experiencing. I may end up buying a dehumidifier I suppose.

I 'd say it's a combination of humidity and air tightness of the case. It's the perfect environment for all kinds of unwanted things to grow.