The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Philcoman
Date: 2011-04-22 23:12
Hi all! I have a repair issue: This afternoon while I was practicing, my ancient but trusty E11 suddenly became unresponsive. When I examined it a section of the key work from the upper joint, including the ring over the D/G hole and the extension that crosses the tenon between the joints, fell right off into my hand, leaving a long sharp bit of blue spring protruding from the keywork that was still attached.
I didn't find a screw or see a place where it could have been screwed in. Did it simply break off? Anyone know whether this is a reasonable repair job or whether I have an excuse to finally start shopping for an upgrade? Money's a little tight right now, but I can't go very long without my clarinet, so either option works for me!
"If you want to do something, you do it, and handle the obstacles as they come." --Benny Goodman
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2011-04-22 23:35
The LH2 ring is mounted between point screws that go in either end.
Sounds like it could be either the upper screw which is a long rod with a point at the end has backed out, so look around the uppermost pillar and you'll see a screw head poking out (near the throat G# pad cup).
If it's not that one and if the screw head is still in the pillar and not protruding, then the point screw in the lower pillar by the tenon could've fallen out, so check the case to see if it might be in there. If it's dropped out on the carpet, you won't have much luck in finding it, but go over the area where you think it might be with a strong magnet which should pick it up.
It's not the end of the world - if the screws are still present then it's a case of putting the key back on and making sure the screws remain tight, but this is best left to a tech who can make any adjustments to be sure they are all tight and won't accidentally come undone again.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: Jack Kissinger
Date: 2011-04-23 00:07
And if the bottom screw (which I would be inclined to suspect) is lost, a new screw will probably cost about $3.50 - $5.00, depending on where you get it -- in your case, I agree with Chris that it would be best if you went to a repair tech.
Best regards,
jnk
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Author: pewd
Date: 2011-04-23 00:36
Jack's pricing is spot on. Simple repair.
- Paul Dods
Dallas, Texas
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Author: Philcoman
Date: 2011-04-23 02:00
Bingo! The upper screw is indeed protruding. Many thanks, all of you, for your quick and helpful responses. I will take your advice and bring it to a technician -- there's a very good one in Boston and my poor clarinet is overdue for a check-up anyway.
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