York 640 project

[opus37]

A couple of folks showed some interest in purchasing my 640 for use as a basis for a frankentuba F. We could not agree on a price. So, I finally decided that I was going to do a play restoration on a York 640. A York 640 is a low pitch 3/4 size Eb with 3 top loaded pistons. It is a 1906 horn in silver plate. The restoration will include replacing the finger buttons and valve caps (missing or poorly replaced in the past), repair or replace 3 braces, change receiver to allow use of american shank mouthpieces, removal of some dents, valve alinement with new corks and felts, a good internal cleaning, and tuning to play 440. Once I get it back it will require a lot of silver polish and elbow grease. The valves are stained but not pitted so I think I can clean those up so it will play nicely. The valves are the size of those 1960's bell front baritones that were very common in high school bands. It should be a fun horn for tuba Christmas or small groups. It may end up as a starter horn for my grandson. I'm hoping the legendary York sound comes through on this horn. I expect this project will take about 6 months to complete.

[Bob Kolada]

There were a couple of these for sale a few years back that I couldn't get at the time, like 400 bucks and in great shape. Beautiful horns!

[The Big Ben]

Looking at you .sig, you have quite a supply of oldies. That's cool.

I'm glad you are keeping this close to original. Changing the tuning and the receiver is just a good idea to make it usable. Not much stuff left from 1906,

[opus37]

Looking at you .sig, you have quite a supply of oldies. That's cool.

I'm glad you are keeping this close to original. Changing the tuning and the receiver is just a good idea to make it usable. Not much stuff left from 1906,

Yes, I seem to have an attraction to them (or them to me). Anyway, the York came as an extra with three others that were part of an old polka band guy's estate. The family want me to take all of them cheap. One of these days, I'm going to have to sell some of them. I just don't play all of them enough to justify keeping them. Right now, all of them play excellently except the York.

[opus37]

Here is a before picture.

[opus37]

Through the generosity of tuba net members, I have been able to collect some parts to help this project along. My repair guy should be able to complete the restoration by Tuba Christmas time. I might have enough parts to add a fourth valve. We'll see how it plays first.

[bort]

Who is doing the work on this? Maybe I can see it at TC?

[opus37]

Jesse Hartley is doing the work. He's a guy who is semi-retired and works part time. He likes to putter with my old horns. What he can't or won't handle I send to Lee Stofer. So far this 640 will be within Jesse's capability. If I add a 4th valve I'll likely have to talk to Lee.

It may be ready for TC. We'll see how it goes.