Author: jhoyla
Date: 2008-01-14 19:17
I think I catch the gist of your question, and why my comment about the G# key being sprung open has misled you - my apologies!
Obviously, the end result must be that the key stays down, and goes up only if you operate one of the two G# keys.
The mechanism by which this is achieved is with two springs, one weak, that springs the key open, and a stronger spring on the LH G# cantilever that keeps the key closed.
Before taking the instrument apart, you can try oiling both parts of this mechanism with a tiny drop of oil at each end of its hinge. If this is not effective, then, with a spring-hook (there is no easy substitute for this) gently unhook the spring from the LH G# cantilever. Only do this if you see that there is enough clearance UNDER the cantilever tube for the spring to come all the way down and round.
Once the spring is down and round, you can try and give it a bit more tension so that it closes the G# with more force. Do this with great care, since over doing it can weaken the spring or even snap it off. Finally, gently maneuver the spring back into place and see if this has improved matters.
One final thought; Skin pads (the white ones) are very effective, but have limited life. They are made of felt covered with a very fine skin, which will crack with age. If you do have to take your horn back to a repair person to fix your G#, get him to clean up and regulate the whole mechanism, replacing any pads that look worn or cracked. It is worth the extra cost - just think how much more time you will have for playing!
J.
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