Noisy tube socket

[Rayme]

I have a Capehart stereo amp with 2- 12AX7 and 2-EL84 and a EZ81. One of the 12AX7 tubes crackles and pops when wiggled but it is not the tube. This happens with the volume turned down also. Seems to be socket, such as not holding tube tight enough. Socket is solid on the chassis,so is there any way to tighten a tube socket, so the tube will be firmer in place? Thanks, Rayme

[Garydean]

Depending on the socket type, you should be able to get along side the pin socket with a dental pick and compress the opening. I would inspect the contacts inside the chassis as well to be sure all is fine there. Drain your caps first before you pick around. If this fails, just replace the socket.

[rockon1]

What Garydean plus you might want to get some electrical contact cleaner.spray the tube pins and work them in and out of the sockets a few times. Make sure the capacitors are drained before you go poking around inside the amp! If you dont know how dont do it. Bob