How to clean a Victor?

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Originally Posted by UndergroundVoid

theses 40 or so victors have all past their warranty age so opening isn't a problem but i notice this clear looking glue over the boards that have the metal fragments scattered near exposed connections.

I am guessing you have already removed the bottom cover and that is where you are seeing this clear glue. That is what holds the circuit board in place in the top cover. An expert would remove this glue with a razor blade or scalpel and then lift the circuit board out of the case before using a good vacuum to remove foreign objects on both sides of the board. Since this is something you likely wouldn't want to tackle I will suggest that you first remove the fan assy. then invert the Victor so that the top is down. Tap the case with your fingers to try and loosen any material which will fall into the top of the case. Then while still inverted apply the vacuum to all openings in the case, around the transistors, etc. Remember the vacuum does nothing if air can't flow around the components and into the vacuum. Repeat this procedure at least once, tap and vacuum. Then do the same procedure on the bottom. I think you will find that a fine dust may remain on either or both sides of the board. For this a swab dipped in alcohol is best, if you change swabs often. You can pull on the cotton end to elongate it and make it fit into tight places as needed. Now inspect both top and bottom with a bright light and magnifier. When you are satisfied it's clean, reassemble and test.
Most of the circuit board has a conformal coating to keep out moisture so the most vulnerable spots are around the MOSFET transistor pins. Check these areas very carefully. With practice you will get the hang of tapping and vacuum.