DBX 160x collet knob removal

[Matt C]

I'm trying to take apart one of my DBX 160x units and maybe replace one of the pots.  I cannot for the life of me figure out how to get these collet knobs off (see picture below).  I'm imagining there is a dedicated, overpriced tool for this sort of thing, but is there another trick I can use to get this thing loose?

 

[Youngwhisk]

Snap ring pliers work for this. It is an automotive tool and can be found in various price ranges.

 

[Dreams]

I use flathead screwdrivers with a slot filed in the middle.

 

[mjrippe]

Small needle-nose pliers, sturdy tweezers, hemostats, even scissors in a pinch!  But yes, there IS an overpriced tool for it.  No, I don't own one 

 

[pucho812]

Why are you wanting to replace the pot, is something wrong with it?
collet tools are expensive.  I  did a DIY version with a flat screw driver  and a dremil tool. Notched out the center and it worked. But it's not as good as an official collet tool. But they are expensive and sizes do very so what's it work to you.

 

[Harpo]

using two flathead screwdrivers most often works ...

 

[lassoharp]

Sorry to rant but am trying to remove knobs on dbx160X for simple jack repair.  Seems totally ridiculous. No idea why dbx can't use regular push on knobs like everyone else.  Total PITA!   

 

[Matt C]

Total PITA!   

agreed, after several attempts I still haven't gotten mine loose (using pliers, tweezers, two flat head screwdrivers, liquid wrench to loosen it up, etc).  Next I guess I'll try filing a notch in a large flat head screwdriver, but I've just been waiting to find a good way to do that.  arggh.

 

[lassoharp]

I managed to get two off and had the best luck with small needle nose pliers.  Third one is tightened crazy tight like yours must be.  Gonna see if I can get some WD-40 in there.

 

[dirtyblvdrecordingco]

UPDATE: if you're trying to get the collet knobs off your dbx, a bit that works for this comes in regular old 100pc bit set you can get at Harbor Freight or Amazon.

Definitely worth having just for the other bits included.