How can I clean the pole pieces that get clogged with dirt and grime?
First I remove the strings and completely mask off the instrument so I don t spray any cleaner or lubricant on the finish or hardware. To get rid of the debris I often use a fine bristle tooth brush that is moistened and gently scrub the pole pieces or bridge saddles. I also use a small amount of 409 cleaner and gently dislodge the dirt and grime. Immediately after loosening the dirt and grime, I dry the parts with a soft rag and even use a hair dryer set on low to evaporate the excess moisture. I often use another tooth brush to gently lubricate the poles and bridge units with Tru-Oil to keep down the oxidation and bonding of metal parts. The lubricant on the bridge saddles helps keep the string slightly lubricated and reduces friction between the string and saddle when plucked. Also do not use stainless steel screws as most of the stainless will not conduct the magnetic field to your strings.
