E body dash dimmer switch cleaning

My dimmer switch isn't functioning. When I took it apart I noted that whatever had been used to retain the stainless rheostat spring inside the ceramic holder had failed. It had turned to white powder. I have everything cleaned up and ready for reassembly but curious to hear what ya'll use retain the spring. Epoxy? Silicone?

Thanks!

what about some JB weld?

I bypass it on my Challenger. Last thing it needs is a dimmed down dash instrument panel. A "U" shaped short jumper wire with a couple of electrical male tabs affixed is what I used. A toggle switch under the dash controls the dome light.

the man to ask is Jim at JS restorations
jsrestorations@rocketmail.com or JS Restorations on this board

Thanks; I couldn't in good conscience ask a guy who restores switches for a living to tell me his secrets. I figured that many people had been down this road before me, and could tell me what's worked for them.

JB weld might be a good option, thanks for the suggestion.

of course but Jim is more about the hobby.......

That coil acts as a resistor, meaning it will get hot, hence why over the years the original bedding compound they used broke down over time and why the surrounding material resembles a type of ceramic. I'd bet it's closer to plaster of paris than any type of glue - some sort of hardening cement type of material, same as used in ballast resistors. Not sure I'd try JB Weld on it. It's good stuff but like any other epoxy I believe heat will soften it.

The powder did resemble Plaster of Paris. I'll give it a shot. Thanks!