Rotary key extension

[caa62]

I have a 4 valve rotary horn, and I'd like to make the key on the 4th a little longer to fit my hand better. What's the best way to do it? I've seen where coins have been attached to the paddles. Does anyone make aftermarket extended paddles? Looking for recommendations. Thanks.

[Dan Schultz]

I have a 4 valve rotary horn, and I'd like to make the key on the 4th a little longer to fit my hand better. What's the best way to do it? I've seen where coins have been attached to the paddles. Does anyone make aftermarket extended paddles? Looking for recommendations. Thanks.

Funny... I just made an extended paddle for a tuba I have here for repair. It's not difficult if you have the materials, a bandsaw or jewelers saw, and some soldering skills. I've seen the original paddles both soft-soldered to the lever and brazed to the lever. Of course... you'll have to remove the old paddle before applying the new one.

I've seen extensions made of wood and glued on.

However... by far the easiest is just solder a coin to the paddle. You can attach half of the coin to the paddle and let the rest 'hang over'. I prefer doing this as not all hands are the same and it's easy to reverse.