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Need valve stems/pistons Conn EB

Posted: Thu Feb 16, 2012 8:34 pm
by LCH3
Looking for valve stems and/or pistons for a 1920's vintage Conn Eb tuba as pictured. No parts at Allied.

Thanks.

Re: Need valve stems/pistons Conn EB

Posted: Thu Feb 16, 2012 9:46 pm
by Daniel C. Oberloh
Are the original pistons missing? If not, you know they can be repaired and rebuilt. :D

http://www.oberloh.com/gallery/tubavalvereferbish.htm


Dabiel C. Oberloh
Oberloh Woodwind and Brass Works
http://www.oberloh.com

Re: Need valve stems/pistons Conn EB

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 8:20 am
by Ulli
Interesting- but will it be worth for a 1920th 3v comp Eb Boosey&Co. Imperial with worn out valves?

Ulli

Re: Need valve stems/pistons Conn EB

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 10:51 am
by SousaSaver
Don't try to replace the valves. Have them rebuilt. It appears not to be missing any parts...

Re: Need valve stems/pistons Conn EB

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 11:51 am
by The Big Ben
BRSousa wrote:Don't try to replace the valves. Have them rebuilt. It appears not to be missing any parts...
Agreed. I suppose by looking really hard and getting really lucky, the owner might find four new valves for this horn. The problem is, though, the casings will be worn and the valve won't just slide in and be perfect. So, the drill usually is to plate the valves, bore the casings until they are straight and true and then hone the valves to fit the casings. Not cheap but it does restore the valves to new performance.

Re: Need valve stems/pistons Conn EB

Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2012 1:27 am
by Gilligan
In your search don't skip Pan American Eb's. Pan American was Conn's subsidiary in the 1920 and they often shared parts.

Re: Need valve stems/pistons Conn EB

Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2012 8:38 am
by LCH3
Thanks to all for the advice.

Bloke, have not tried the sousaphone valves from Allied, but my repairman has talked to Allied and was advised they would not have anything to fit.

The tuba plays very nice, but the valves are heavily worn. The suggestion of rebuilding seems to be the best option.