That $60 switch opener kit I bought - worth it or a waste?

I grabbed one of those specialized switch opener kits for $60 thinking it'd save me time lubing switches. First build I used it on, the little plastic tool snapped on the second switch and I had to go back to using a flathead screwdriver. But after I got a sturdier replacement for $25, it actually sped things up and I didn't scratch any housings. I'm curious - did the fancy tool pay off for you, or are you still sticking with the screwdriver method?

2 comments

2 Comments

nancyd851mo ago

Honestly, is it that deep though? I just use the little metal rod that comes with my switch puller and it works fine. People act like you need a whole science lab setup to lube some switches.

amymiller1mo ago

Yeah that little rod works fine for opening up switches, but it's actually not meant for lubing. It's really just to help you separate the housing halves without scratching them. If you're using it to apply grease directly from the tip, you're probably getting way too much on there or missing spots. A proper brush lets you spread a thin even layer which makes a bigger difference in feel than people realize. I used the rod method for a while too and thought it was fine until I tried a brush and noticed my switches sounded a lot more consistent.