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Drum Maintenance & Repair
The aim of this page is to help you keep your drums in tip-top working condition and to prolong their working life. The page is divided into three sections covering the following topics:
Ensure that all threads work well and are
lubricated. Use a proprietary brand such as LP Lug Lube™
as this is designed to cope with high pressure and repeated use.
Petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline™ is another readily
available option. These should be checked regularly ESPECIALLY
if the kit has been frequently used or exposed to moisture or
adverse weather.
Make sure that all tension bolts, nuts and washers are present
and work properly. Be careful to check for cross-threading
which will make adjustment a nightmare, and will only get worse
with time.
Once the drum heads have been removed check the bearing edges for
cracks in the shell or bearing edge deformities. It does no harm
to take a candle and gently rub a bit of wax around the bearing
edges to help smooth movement of the skin over the edge. ALWAYS
ensure that all lumps of wax are removed before fitting the
head.
On snare drums always check that the snare-strainer throw-off
assembly is lubricated and works smoothly. Also check the snares
themselves for damage or bending.
br> Check the exterior finish for deep scratches, evidence of
cracks or other damage. Apply a coat of polish to the shells and
fittings to maintain a good finish.
Check condition of the drum heads and change as appropriate. The life of a head can depend on its type, how heavily it is played and how often it is played. It is worth remembering that some professionals change their drum heads each night (though for many of these, cost is not an issue because of endorsements!). Double-ply heads sound 'bigger' but can become dull more quickly. Single-ply heads are generally more 'open' or 'ringy' in tone, and last longer before they sound 'flat'.
Always make sure that you carry a 'spares' supply
of drum parts and the necessary tools e.g., spare drum key(s),
spanner(s) and screwdriver(s) which, like guitarists' plectrums
always disappear at their time of greatest need!
Ensure, wherever possible that your drums are cased. Hard cases
generally give better protection, though they may need lining
with a softer material to hold the drum more securely in its case
and prevent scratching. Alternatively, there are now some
excellent soft cases available made from high impact,
hard-wearing materials, which are fleece-lined or padded. If you
are using single-headed drums AVOID the temptation to pack them
one inside the other; THEY DON'T LIKE IT!
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PO Box 202 Loughborough LE11 1WH UK
Tel: UK + (0) 1509 568606
e-mail: contact@waywood.com
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Page Last Revised: 06 Dec 2007 17:18:07 -0000 .
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