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Hello,

I just purchased a King 2341 (newer style), and gave it a good cleaning. BTW- thanks to whoever posted the 'How It's Made-Tuba' episode link- the end product is a 2341!

Is there an 'O' ring where the lead pipe fits to the valve block? Not sure if the small amount of silicon (as sealant?) I found was original or something the previous owner (cleaner person) did as they did not have a replacement ring. With the silicon, the pipe was still somewhat loose in the fitting.

Thanks

I have only been around a modern 2341 onece at Baltimore Brass Co. To my knowledge, I thought the lead pipe was soldered onto the valve block. This is just my one observation and opinion. It may differ from what others who are more knowledgeable may offer.

I used to own and frequently clean the newer King 2341. The lead pipe and valve sections both unscrew to allow for easier cleaning and repair access. The screw part that fits the lead pipe to the valve section (right into the first valve), needs to be sealed in some way.

The first time I took it apart, cleaned it, then put it back together I had a terrible leak. It was recommended that I use Hetman's USG (Ultra Slide Grease, very thick pasty white stuff) to seal it off. Worked like a charm and I used that every other time I took off the lead pipe to clean it. I guess a fitted rubber or silicon washer sort of thing could be used as well, but as far as I know that wasn't original to the instrument's manufacture. You could use anything that fits that would keep air from leaking.

Hope this helps.

I have one the first of the current series of the 2341s - which is soldered together.

I don't know what rotting brain came up with the O-ring sealed detachable valve section. Okay for fibreglass sousaphones - I'm not sold on the idea for top of the line tubas. Tubas leak badly enough to begin with.

Anyway - my guess is that the O-ring is made of neoprene, and should be replaced once in a while. The best thing for sealing O-rings is a silicone grease which can be found in swimming pool supply stores. The pool pump parts usually have O-ring seals, and they are sealed and preserved with the silicone grease. Should work well on a tuba, too.

The joint should been soldered in the first place.

Thanks 'Uncle Markie'!

I went to the local auto parts store and got exactly that- a neoprene O-ring, and it sealed perfectly (I got 2 extra!). I have to think that's what it requires. I agree that tubas can have enough leaks to deal with without designing a leak into it. This seal is nice and tight! Thanks!