Klarinet Archive - Posting 000642.txt from 1997/04

From: "Brian Ackerman" <ackerman@-----.uk>
Subj: Re: Sticky pads
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 19:05:44 -0400

I would agree that regular cleaning of toneholes with lighter fluid is to
be avoided, although this is fine on metal instruments and also good on
pads. If the pad is sticking though, it is very likely to be oil build-up
on the tonehole, and lighter fluid is a good de-greaser. Use it just around
the top though, and only if the tonehole is sticky or oily.
Lighter fluid evaporates completely without leaving an oily deposit, and is
in fact recommended (on the instructions) for spot cleaning of grease,
removing sticky labels and tar spots. It removes oils such as linseed,
which harden and become sticky.
Powder papers are a lot safer than loose powder. Follow the instructions
and do not draw the paper out as it will then deposit unrequired powder.
They may not be the perfect answer, but they are easy to use and usually do
the trick. To talk about it drawing the oil and possibly causing cracks is
far too alarmist in this situation. I think Yamaha would have withdrawn
them ages ago if this were the case.
One other thing about the original question. I have often seen badly fitted
pads which are too large and project over the side of the cup. This can
then rub against the side of the tonehole and cause the key to stick.
Brian Ackerman.

________________
Steve wrote:
> I'm afraid I have to disagree with you. Cleaning the tonehole of
a
> plastic clarinet with lighter fluid is OK I suppose though it is a little
> oily. Cleaning a tonehole of a wooden clarinet with lighter fluid is not
> OK. Petroleum products will rot the wood over time. And again, you will
> have to wipe it clean in order to remove the oil so the pad will not
stick.
> I also, as stated in a previous post, will not use pad powders for the
very
> reason you state...they build up and attract grease and oil (and dirt).
> The powders also draw the oils out of the wood and dry the tonehole,
making
> it a prime candidate for checking and cracking.
>
> Steve
>
> Steve Prescott
> Instrument Rep.Tech./ Clarinetist
> Indiana State University
> mipresc@-----.edu
>