Forum of the Saxes

CMelodyMan · Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 2:31 pm Post subject: Replacing A Pad

Okay, I know that most of you probably think that replacing a pad is hard, but in reality, it's quite simple.

First you will need a good clear work surface to lay out parts. Remember, you will reassemble in reverse order from disassembly.
Remove the keys for the pads that are being replaced. It's probably better to do a section at a time. Be sure to keep keys and screws in order as that will greatly ease the pain of reassembly.
Once you have the keys off, clean the section. You can now polish your keys and replace the pads. Never use a wet polish. Use a dry polishing cloth.
Remove old pads from the cups by scrapping out the old pad. Clean the cup as much as possible. If you have trouble getting it clean, you can heat the pad cup with a match or lighter, or a small hand-held blowtorch to soften the old glue.
Put a small amount of glue in the pad cup and position the pad in the cup. Let this dry for 3-4 hours before attempting to reassemble or adjust the pads.
Reassemble the section.
Adjust for air leaks by using a match or lighter to heat the back of the pad cup until the glue is softened. Let the pad cup rest lightly against the tone hole. Test for leaks.
This process may take some trial and error, just keep working on it. In some cases (instrument dropped, etc.) you may need to straighten or slightly bend keys to get proper fit.
CAUTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Never let the flame hit the pad or you will need a new pad.

If you have any questions about pad installation send me a PM.

_________________

Alto: Yanagisawa (880), Morgan 6M w/ Rico
C Melody: c.1919 Martin Inspiration
York soprano

JPSaxMan · Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 4:33 pm Post subject:

And I assume you actually did this? Or is this a source from like SOTW or some other viable place of the like? Confused

_________________
JP
Student of Saxophone
Music Education (BME) Major-2011
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

CMelodyMan · Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 8:01 pm Post subject:

Yes, I've done this before. I'm an amateur repairman.
_________________

Alto: Yanagisawa (880), Morgan 6M w/ Rico
C Melody: c.1919 Martin Inspiration
York soprano

CMelodyMan · Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 8:07 pm Post subject:

So far I've completely overhauled my c mel, and I'm in the process of overhauling my clarinet.
_________________

Alto: Yanagisawa (880), Morgan 6M w/ Rico
C Melody: c.1919 Martin Inspiration
York soprano

JPSaxMan · Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 8:56 pm Post subject:

So if I follow your repair processes word for word I won't f*** up my saxophone? Confused

_________________
JP
Student of Saxophone
Music Education (BME) Major-2011
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

CMelodyMan · Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 9:01 pm Post subject:

Well, it depends on how carefully you do it, and it's always helpful to get your local repairman to help you, or someone else who is good at fixing stuff, to help you, as I did. All I can say is good luck, and try not to f$%6 your sax up.
_________________

Alto: Yanagisawa (880), Morgan 6M w/ Rico
C Melody: c.1919 Martin Inspiration
York soprano

JPSaxMan · Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 9:05 pm Post subject:

I don't intend on touching my saxophones unless I have to...cha' kno what I mean? Cool

_________________
JP
Student of Saxophone
Music Education (BME) Major-2011
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

CMelodyMan · Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 9:08 pm Post subject:

I just think that it's useful to know these types of sax repairs, in case you need to fix your sax.
_________________

Alto: Yanagisawa (880), Morgan 6M w/ Rico
C Melody: c.1919 Martin Inspiration
York soprano

JPSaxMan · Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 9:39 pm Post subject:

If I get a Serie III I might try doin this stuff to my Armstrong so I don't ruin my only alto! Cool

_________________
JP
Student of Saxophone
Music Education (BME) Major-2011
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

Doc Frazier · Posted: Thu Jul 07, 2005 10:14 pm Post subject:

Don't worry, if you mess up, I'll fix it for ya! Laughing

Doc
www.JandJWoodwinds.com

saxmaniac · Joined: 21 Jun 2005 Posts: 184

Or me, I'm a repairmen too, only as ahobby though. :D

JPSaxMan · Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 9:27 am Post subject:

I think I'd rather go with Doc on that one, no offense saxmaniac Laughing

_________________
JP
Student of Saxophone
Music Education (BME) Major-2011
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

saxmaniac · Joined: 21 Jun 2005 Posts: 184

Well, I have been doing this as a hobby for 28 years, but suit yourself. Doc probably is more experienced than me, :D