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Guys,

My son just purchased a 20k conn sousaphone. If I had to date it with out readily knowing the serial number I would have to say it's a mid 80s model. Anyway, when looking at the valves, which need calibrating, it doesn't have corks and felts under the valve cap. The valve stem has a groove in it and there is a "C" shaped snap washer snapped in the groove with a felt on the top. When did this start? This only raised a question because it is missing on two of the valves. Also, the little valve rods that run from the cap to a hole on the edge of the valve is mission on two of the valves. What is this part called and is this something that I can order? Can it still be calibrated the old fashion way with corks and felts?

thanks

It doesn't have anything on the bell. It's missing one screw in the bell but everything else is in tact. I'll take pictures and post them tomorrow

I believe the "C" shaped snap is part of the short action system. We had one missing this year at school and the valve popped up more than the others.

Those c-shaped clips are prone to breaking so there's no harm in getting rid of them. In fact, I liked the cork better because it deadened the valve return vibration and was more reliable. Just make sure the top of the cork level is even with the line or indention in the valve stem. Trim around the sides to adjust for the offset valve stem and you're back in business. When oiling the valves, make it part of the player's inspection of the horn to check out the condition of the corks.

And if you don't like cork, there are several other alternatives out there, including blokewashers, Baer sets, etc.