Stiff Springs on Yamaha YBB-621 3/4 Tuba

[johnmorgan]

A friend just bought a Yamaha YBB-621 3/4 BBb Tuba. It has 4 in-line valves (front, not top). He is an older gent and claims the springs are very stiff and hard to manipulate. Our band director tried the horn and came to the same conclusion, yet he, too, is an older gent. Does anyone know if the springs are indeed stiff on this tuba? If so, have you found alternative springs that can be used. I only see original equipment on the Yamaha Parts website. Any help would be sincerely appreciated.

[Mark Horne]

Standard solution for many players (including myself) is to go with Yamaha euphonium springs. I've replaced the springs on a Miraphone 1291 and Gronitz PCK with them and they work great. Found them on eBay for about $20 on both occasions.

[johnmorgan]

Thanks, Mark!

[Chriss2760]

Sweet! Thanks for the tip. There's no reason for these valves to be as stiff as they are.