sousaphone restoration - where to begin

[opus37]

First, you have to see what you have. Are all the parts there? If you are missing a piston, the plastic is broken beyond repair then you have a wall hanger. If it is less than that, you can buy necks, tuning bits, finger buttons and the like. Repair techs can loosen stuck slides make a stem, pound out dents, etc, for not too much money. You can repaint it rather easily if needed. A missing slide or valve caps can be found or made. The question is, how much time and money are you willing to put into it?

[opus37]

Don't be a fool, take Bloke up on his offer. Yes, finish the farm work but there likely will be a week this fall or winter where you can work something out. You'll get a good playing horn and a wealth of knowledge (maybe even a good friend) out of the experience.

I have a 1912 Martin. A few years back I decided to have it restored. I took a pilgrimage down to see Lee Stofer. (actually twice) I found it to be one of the best tuba things I've ever done. Lee, like Bloke, is a true gentleman and a wealth of knowledge. Just watching him work and chatting with him was well worth my time. As I play the horn now, it makes me smile and it performs wonderfully. It has history and Lee is part of that history. Lee and I have had a few conversations (over the internet) since then and I have had a couple of other things done by him. I treasure his expertise and friendship.

[Three Valves]

Don't be a fool, take Bloke up on his offer....

After the BBQ reopens...