Pros and Cons of Lacquer removal

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Radar
3 valves
3 valves
Posts: 303
Joined: Sat Dec 01, 2012 1:51 pm
Location: Rochester NY

Pros and Cons of Lacquer removal

Post by Radar »

I've got an old Yamaha YBB-321 that plays pretty well. I hope at some point to get a second Tuba and this become my backup horn. In the mean time I'm seriously considering stripping off (about 50%) the Lacquer that is left on the horn to give in a more uniform appearance. Are there any good reasons not to strip the Lacquer off of this horn. I plan to use a chemical stripper in a well ventilated Garage this summer. I know that worrying about appearance on a horn like this is probably a little bit of vanity, but if I can improve the appearance with little cost and my own labor why not?

I don't plan to re-lacquer the horn, will probably go for a matte finish and a light coat of car wax to protect the metal. Any warnings, suggestions, alternatives, or reasons not to pursue this plan of action?

All suggestions appreciated
Retired Army Reserve 98th Div. Band: Euphonium, Trombone, Tuba, Bass Guitar
Miraphone 186 CC
Conn 36K Sousaphone
Euphonium: Yamaha YEP-321 (modified with Euro-shank receiver with Lehman M mouthpiece)
Trombones:Yamaha 612 Bass, Conn 88H
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