Schmidt 3301 & 3302: Expert opinion needed

[iiipopes]

Rick -- I guess I misread your post -- again. I didn't see a 3-valve comp in person either until I got mine last year. I'm 44. I need to go edit something now in another thread....

[Rick Denney]

I have real concerns about the valve action on this Schmidt.

The valves on the Schmidt at the standard Meinl-Weston Big Valves, and they are fine (unless they have been damaged). Sticking valves are either caused by not yet being broken in (more below), dirt, or lack of oil.

Dirt is a distinct possibility. Rental horns are often not played by people who brush their teeth before playing, and I wonder how thoroughly BM cleaned it before it came to you. Pull out the first valve and stick your finger in one of the knuckle openings inside the valve casing. Green slime? Time for a cleaning.

You've already heard about oiling. The specific oil is not as important as its frequent application. Do it every time you play.

The broken-in part is a little more complex. Bloke once wrote about sticky pistons fresh from the factory, and attributed the cause to normal oxidation inside the casing. The oxidation layer is needed to prevent further oxidation, but when the oxidation forms it's not completely smooth. Eventually, the valve will polish the oxidation layer inside the casing and things will work fine after that. Trying to mechanically polish that layer just removes it, forcing you to start the process over again. Just be patient with it and keep oiling those valves. I'm sure Joe will jump in here if he wants to add something.

Rick "thinking a lesson from a local pro is a really good idea, and could include an evaluation of the Schmidt" Denney

[iiipopes]

All right! -- Get a tuba, get a gig right out of the box! Great! Tell us how 1st rehearsal goes!