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Re: Water in register key?

Author: kdk ★2017
Date: 2015-03-18 16:52

WhitePlainsDave wrote:

>
> Unless you are familiar with the basics of clarinet repair,
> including possession of the right size screw driver, this is
> best handled by a tech.

I agree with Dave that cleaning the tube out may be necessary. But I have to part with him over the danger of doing this yourself, even if you aren't comfortable disassembling other hardware on the instrument. This is one of the easiest DIY chores to do.

Using a jeweler's screwdriver, you only need to take out the rod screw that holds the key in place between two posts and lift the key out from between the posts. I use an absorbent pipe cleaner to run through the tube. You'll also collect any dirt that has stuck inside the tube when it's wet. When you reassemble the key, just make sure the flat spring underneath the key sits in the track that's cut for it (you'll see clearly what I mean if you do this). If your Patricola has the extra little tab under the register key that links to the supplemental Bb hole (really a very nice mechanism), there's not anything you need to do - the RK will just sit on top of it when you place the RK between the posts. Put the screw back in place and tighten it.

There really isn't much that can go wrong. Every once in a while you may want to lubricate the screw with a light coating of oil (clean it first) and lubricate the tip of the spring with something a little heavier - Vaseline works.

You may want to have a tech demonstrate it for you once, but it's really a very low risk task. You can get the screwdriver online from any number of places that sell instruments and supplies, or go into any pharmacy or supermarket and look for an eyeglass repair kit. You don't want to have to run to a tech every time you get water in the tube - you'll waste lots of time travelling to and fro as well as the shop fee if the tech actually charges you.

Karl

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