Replacing 1st Valve Slide (Miraphone 186)

[kprinz]

A question for repair guys/gals out there. I have a 1970's 186CC tuba. The first valve slide metal is soft at the top. I've already had it patched once, and now it's becoming soft around the patch and may already have a pin hole in it. I'm wondering if it would behoove me to replace the entire first valve slide or just take it to get patched (again). If I should replace the slide, can you provide me with some guidance on how to get one ordered?

Thanks!

[IOS]

I had a similar problem with my Miraphone 1291. I contacted Miraphone directly and got a replacement side for $196.00 including postage.

[windshieldbug]

Another vote to contact Miraphone. They were able to send me a 1st valve for my 1975 184-4U CC (the ones that used the plastic action, made new or old stock, I didn't ask... )

[Dan Schultz]

A 'drop-in' solution would be to replace the entire slide. As a repairman... I would replace the crook. On slides that I 'pull' ... I simply wrap the crook with bicycle handlebar tape to combat the chemistry and wear factor. The tape won't bother the brass and gives the crook a nice 'feel'.

[Daniel C. Oberloh]

Any shop can get you a new crook and solder it in. Not expensive or difficult. If you burn thru it every five years, no big, repeat the process. I have also replaced with special ordered crooks made of nickel silver as well.

Dan'l