REPAIR SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL MECHANICAL OVERHAUL

A mechanical overhaul is a multi-stage process through which an instrument is restored to optimal playing condition. To begin, the instrument is disassembled and all of its components are cleaned, including the body, key surfaces, hinge tubes, and hinge rods. The key cups are leveled and hinge rods straightened, as needed. The body is then checked for structural damage, and, if needed, minor dent work and straightening are performed. After body work, all tone holes are checked and leveled. Key fitting is next, wherein hinge tube to rod tolerances are tightened, and hinge tube ends are restored to flushness with post faces. Pivot screws are countersunk, and solid hinge rods are reamed to exact fittings. All pads, corks, and felts are replaced (plastic resonators are included, see Additional Fees below), and the instrument is reassembled. All pads are then leveled, and all regulations and mechanical adjustments are made. The instrument is further adjusted as needed and specified by the customer upon play testing.

ADDITIONAL FEES (priced by estimate on a case by case basis)
Metal resonators
Major body work (if needed)
Replacement of all springs
Replacement of multiple rods
Custom key work
Pearl replacement
Silver polishing (if applicable)

COMPLETE MECHANICAL RESTORATION

The complete mechanical restoration is more comprehensive than the mechanical overhaul as it involves the same procedures, but also includes replacement of all hinge rods, pivot and set screws, and springs, as well as extensive body and key work. If refurbishing your instrument necessitates the replacement of all mechanical components and/or the repair of severe structural damage, a mechanical restoration is appropriate.

CLEAN, OIL, AND ADJUST

A clean, oil, and adjust procedure is designed to improve the overall response and playability of an instrument to the greatest degree possible without entering into the level of detail involved in a mechanical overhaul. The instrument is disassembled and the body, hinge tubes, and hinge rods are cleaned. The most deteriorated pads are identified and replaced, as are the most compressed and damaged key corks. Major key fitting and tone hole issues are addressed to restore basic mechanical action.

PLAYING CONDITION

In a playing condition repair, those issues are addressed that require immediate attention, have the greatest effect on playability, or are specifically requested by the customer. Pads and key corks are replaced as necessary. Pads are leveled throughout the instrument, and mechanical regulations are examined and adjusted. The instrument is play tested to verify the effectiveness of these selective repairs.

ESTIMATES

The specific requirements of each repair vary from case to case, and therefore, so does the total price of services and parts. Estimates must be made in person at the shop, but are made free of charge. Visit the CONTACT page (see navigation menu above) to make an appointment or submit any questions you may have about your instrument repair needs.