Hercules Stands with Sticky Grip

[BigRedX]

I have 5 of the standard Hercules GS414B stands and recently the rubber on the grip section used to alter the height has become sticky, but only on 4 of them.

I can't use these at gigs any more, because every time I fold them down and set them back up, the grip leaves a nasty sticky residue all over may hands.

Any idea why this has happened? And how can I get them back to their non-sticky condition?

Edited September 14, 2016 by BigRedX

[Muppet]

Odd, it's happened on one out of three of mine too, like it's got glue on it or melted in the heat. I have to wash my hands after using it. No idea why I'm afraid, I just assumed the rubber was perishing...

[pete.young]

Mine too. A quick search indicates that this is not uncommon and occasionally leads to the stand failing! Time to find an alternative brand i think.

Edited September 14, 2016 by pete.young

[BigRedX]

[quote name='pete.young' timestamp='1473864504' post='3133670']
Mine too. A quick search indicates that this is not uncommon and occasionally leads to the stand failing! Time to find an alternative brand i think.
[/quote]

I can't afford to replace 4 stands and TBH I haven't found a better alternative to Hercules that is actually any good for holding basses with asymmetrical bodies.

Maybe it's time to email Hercules and see what they say.

[pete.young]

Good luck. Let us know if you get a response.

[Norris]

I think Hercules have a lifetime warranty (?) I wonder if that would be covered

[TheGreek]

The problem you fellas are experiencing is known to Hercules - I had a similar issue last year, contacted their UK supplier (part of EBUK) who sent a replacement FOC which I donated to the raffle at this years Herts Bash.

I believe this is the link:

[email protected]

As we know, the Customer service at Strings and Things is excellent so I have no doubt that this can be resolve to the satisfaction of all concerned.

[gary mac]

I have the same with one of mine but the other is fine, both are the same age

[pete.young]

I've just had an email from a very nice chap at Strings And Things who has offered to send me a replacement. Excellent customer service as TheGreek says.

[bassmanklm]

Do you know if this also works for a french guy (myself, as you you'd guess !)

[pete.young]

If you are in France, you'll need to contact whoever the distributor is. www.herculesstands.com has a 'find your local dealer' link.

[barkin]

[quote name='gary mac' timestamp='1473883479' post='3133909']
I have the same with one of mine but the other is fine, both are the same age
[/quote]

Me too...

[Bassassin]

I noticed this exact same problem with mine last week. Had mine for 5 or 6 years now - looks like they're all self-destructing at the same time!

Was wondering if I can remove the mucky residue with acetone or white spirit but I think I'll drop an email to Strings & Things first.

[essexbasscat]

i wondered if it was just mine.....

[andyonbass]

Mine too.........

[pete.young]

Happy to report that my replacement stand arrived by post this morning. Fantastic customer service by Strings and Things.

[MoonBassAlpha]

[quote name='Bassassin' timestamp='1473959644' post='3134563']
I noticed this exact same problem with mine last week. Had mine for 5 or 6 years now - looks like they're all self-destructing at the same time!

Was wondering if I can remove the mucky residue with acetone or white spirit but I think I'll drop an email to Strings & Things first.
[/quote]
I would definitely not use acetone on anything foamy.

[alyctes]

[quote name='MoonBassAlpha' timestamp='1474498251' post='3138486']
I would definitely not use acetone on anything foamy.
[/quote]

Could I ask why not, please? Just curious. Thanks

[MoonBassAlpha]

Acetone is one of the most aggressive solvents for plastics you can readily access. There are some plastics it won't touch ( polyethylene, polypropylene for example)
There may be some foams it is ok with, I don't have so much experience there, but because a foam has a large surface area, if it is affected, it will be a lot, and quickly!
I really wouldn't do it, but if you try it, do it somewhere very inconspicuous, as always with an untried process.

[BigRedX]

Just wanted to post with a very impressive resolution to my problem from Alex at Strings And Things.

4 brand new Hercules stands arrived this afternoon to replace mine with sticky grips.

Excellent customer service that cannot be faulted. Many thanks to Strings And Things!

[neepheid]

I think one of mine has the sticky syndrome - nice to hear they're stepping up and not shirking it.