Flatwounds: resurrecting

[s4001]

I bought a bass a few weeks ago and it had some flats on it. I didn't like them at all on it, but I'm considering putting them on a Ric. The strings seem dead, but I recall folks play them for practically forever. Is there a way of cleaning them? or are they just a bum set?

[sloop_john_b]

I think you're missing the point.

[rickendelic]

Didn't people used to boil strings way back when?

[s4001]

I think you're missing the point.

No, I mean really dead. Two of them are like necks with dead spots - for 15 frets.

[cassius987]

Didn't people used to boil strings way back when?

That can cause as much problems as it claims to fix. I don't think it will do much for dead flats in any case--flats are usually dead when the core separates from the wrap, not because the wrap has gotten dirty. This is why Jamerson was a bane to some studios at times in his career, he never changed his strings, and they would eventually fail.

[bohousp]

I using for cleaning strings ultrasound cleaner (it use for clean spectacles etc.).
The strings be better. It better technique than boiling.

[Tigger]

For what it's worth, I use Ernie Ball Group I flatwounds (.055"–.110") exclusively, and the set on my fretted Jazz-style has been in place for something like 20-odd years, and they're still brighter than I'd prefer!

[s4001]

Didn't people used to boil strings way back when?

That can cause as much problems as it claims to fix. I don't think it will do much for dead flats in any case--flats are usually dead when the core separates from the wrap, not because the wrap has gotten dirty. This is why Jamerson was a bane to some studios at times in his career, he never changed his strings, and they would eventually fail.

thanks.

[coolhandjjl]

You could try Bass Brites. They are a small wipe that has DeOxit amongst other things on them.

[rickenbrother]

If the fingerboard is unfinished, protect it with thick plactic sheets as you clean the strings with naptha on a cotton or chamois cloth. If that doesn't help, change the strings.