Problem with Morley Little Alligator

[keith]

I've had the Little Alligator for almost 2 years now, and after some time it developed this fault.

When I turn the pedal down to zero volume, the volume goes down to zero but then back up again. I had a similar problem with a guitar pot which i had to exchange, but I have no idea in this case due to the strange optical circuitry.

Any ideas? Anyone had the same problem?

[bammbamm]

The one thing about the optic in morley pedals is they can fall apart.
I haven't seen the alligator's internals, but the ones I have seen have a small triangular shroud where a cds cell resides (optical sensor) above it is a small light bulb with reflective tape around it and then attached to the treadle (pedal) is a shroud that covers the wedge where the cds cell is.

What I have seen happen is either the cover or the shroud come off or apart with time. I would suggest opening it up to see if anything is loose or dangling, also check your bulb and make sure that it works.

Bamm

[keith]

Hey i just took it apart. I have to say i'm really amazed at the simple circuitry. Whilst i have singled out the problem, i am still perplexed at how it could've developed.

The circuit is really simple. You have 3 leds, 1 acting as a dummy load, and the other 2 facing an LDR each (Light Dependent Resistor). As the amount of light hitting the LDRs increases, so does the volume.

Now, my problem occurs whenever i set the minimum volume level anywhere above zero. This is where the 2nd LED comes into play, and where the problem is. The plate which moves in front of both resistors has 2 slots, one for each LED. As I move the pedal down to the lowest point, the light hitting the 2nd LDR decreases, but then increases again. This is what caused that volume increase which was my problem.

What i have left to do is figure out some way to stop this over-travel of the pedal, maybe i'll just stick something to the bottom of the pedal so it stops sooner.

Anyways, tnx alot bamm

[J Todd Beachler]

keith, call or email Morley. They are a VERY friendly and helpful group of people!

Phone 847-639-4646

Fax 847-639-4723

info@morleypedals.com

[J Todd Beachler]

I just thought of this; I hope you don't think I'm insulting your intelligence, but you aren't troubleshooting the pedal with the cover off are you? Those light emitting/receiving diodes need to be sealed up to work properly!

[bammbamm]

If you really want to be amazed, look thet the schematics for the volume pedals. Makes you wonder how $275.00 list is even possible...

Bamm