This mornings email brought three individual requests for repair parts for 50+ year old horns. True, I maintain a large "boneyard" of old saxophones. However, I have NEVER been in the parts business. I maintain an inventory of parts for my overhaul customers only, not for public sale. When these parts are gone there will be no more, and I know it.
Manufacturers, if they offer parts at all, generally stock only a very limited assortment and keep them for a limited time. Conn-Selmer has recently announced that they will not stock parts for any horn seven years after the production of that model ceased. That strikes me as pretty reasonable, and is actually better than most companies are offering.
Most parts can be repaired, and it is the sign of a lazy technician who insists that a broken key be replaced rather than silver soldered back together. Unfortunately, some parts can't be fixed in a satisfactory manner, and if your tech knows their stuff, they should be able to fabricate keys, guards, rods, etc. Of course, fabricating parts from scratch is very time consuming, and hence quite expensive.
You can't get necks for old horns. Stop asking me. There are a couple of craftsmen who will custom make necks for selected models for which they have specification, but be on notice that they know what their skills are worth, so get out the big, leather bound checkbook before you order.
Parts from one brand of horn will not fit a different brand. You don't expect Chevrolet parts to work on your Ford, do you?
Some "maintenance" type items are still available, notably Norten springs and snap-in pads for Bueschers, and Reso-pads for Conns. Generic pads and springs are available to fit just about anything ever made. Unfortunately, there are a few things that don't seem to be around anymore, particularly the .150 thickness Leblanc pads and those marvelous gold wire Buffet springs.
My advice to those of you in the repair business is to start your own "boneyard". Buy up every old horn you can find. Throw nothing away. Today's trash may very well become tomorrow's treasure.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment
You are welcome to comment on my posts. HOWEVER, be advised that all comments are moderated, and that I won't allow any comments that do not contain your real name and a verifiable email address. Please do not waste my time and yours with comments you know I will not allow.