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Re: Cracked Top Joints; To Repair Or To Replace...

Author: clarnibass
Date: 2023-08-29 09:29

>> I'm all in favour of REPAIRING cracks over replacing the entire top joint for a new one in the event of a joint cracking. <<

I replace the top joint even less often when the crack is on the lower joint

>> Another factor is the new top joint will need to be played in as though you've just bought the clarinet brand new <<

>> The main issue, IMO, is not to play a new/dry instrument for more than 30 min./day, for a few weeks, just like Buffet recommends. <<

True and recommended, but when comparing new clarinets that are played regularly vs. new clarinets that are broken in slowly, statistically I don't see a significant (or even any) difference in cracking.

>> Cost is another factor - if the instrument is out of the warranty period, a brand new top joint will cost far more than having the crack repaired by whichever method and having any damaged toneholes bushed. <<

Outside the warranty I don't know a single person that chose to have a section replaced instead of repairing a crack (not talking about e.g. a completely smashed and broken section).
Regardless of who is paying for it, there are additional costs depending on how a new section is supplied. Some give them without keys and even springs. Some just with springs. Some with keys. Etc.
It could end up as a half overhaul, if all keys need to be fit, all pads might need to be replaced/installed.

>> and what a waste the old top joint would be as it can only be repurposed by pulverising it and turning it into wood dust to be used as filler. <<

Environmental reasons are very good reasons to have a lot of things repaired instead of replacing them.

>> don't panic <<

Yes, it's not really possible to know in advance, but some cracks don't even need to be repaired. I don't know it from not repairing them, I always recommend repairing cracks. I've seen more than a few clarinets with old cracks that were never repaired and they remain stable and don't leak being played for many years. They just stopped at some point. A crack might be tiny and slowly grow and eventually leak, or it could be a sudden huge crack that stops and doesn't cause any problem. From the player's point of view it's partly psychological and from the physical aspect it's partly a guessing game.

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