Klarinet Archive - Posting 001117.txt from 1998/11

From: reedman@-----.com
Subj: [kl] Expanding clarinet
Date: Sun, 29 Nov 1998 16:15:19 -0500

The problem referred to here is not one due to the cork. Corks are merely
gaskets and should not create the type of problematic binding that Kyle
describes.

Buffet clarinets are machined with fairly close tolerances. It is
preferable, in my opinion, that the clarinets bind a little when new
because a little material (wood) can be removed to remedy the problem.

To adjust the bell tenon it will be easiest to remove material from the
socket. Generally when binding occurs it is due to the wood expanding under
the ferrels (rings). The ferrel prevents expansion at the circumference so
the wood can only expand at the I.D.

Wipe the tenon and the socket dry and then lightly sand the tenon and the
socket with 600 sandpaper. The intent at this point is to make both
surfaces dull. Now, place the bell on the tenon and twist it s few times.
When you remove the bell you will see places on both the tenon and in the
socket that have become "shiny" from being burnished by wood to wood
contact. Your job now is to remove wood at these contact point.

Use fine emery cloth and sand around the inside of the bell socket a few
times. Try the joint. You will probably have not taken off enough - good!
Proceed slowly so as not to over do it. Continue to check for the burnished
areas. As you get closer to a satisfactory fit switch to 400 sand paper and
finsh with 600. I usually allow the tenons to "grab" ever so slightly when
they are flush. Grease the joint and try again. It should be perfect.

Clark W Fobes

Clark W Fobes
Web Page http://www.sneezy.org/clark_fobes

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