Care of New Percussion
The aim of this page is to give your percussion a good start, help you keep it in tip-top working condition and prolong its working life.
Drums with Tension Rods and
Removable Heads
Drums with 'Traditional' Type (e.g., rope)
Tensioning
Drums with Tension Rods and Removable Heads
The first thing
to do with drums is take time to
ensure that ALL threads on tension rods or other nuts and bolts
are lubricated. Use a proprietary brand such as LP Lug
Lube™ as this is designed to cope with high pressure and
repeated use. Petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline™ is
another readily available option. Most drums produced today have
pre-lubricated threads, BUT ALWAYS CHECK.
Make sure that all tension bolts, nuts and washers are present
and work properly. Be careful to check for cross-threading which
will make adjustment a nightmare. This will only get worse with
time, especially where higher tensions are required such as with
timbales, congas and bongos.
Ensure that all items of hardware attached to the shell e.g., nut
boxes, are secure.
Check the drum heads for signs of damage e.g., warped or bent
rims and for splits in the head. Once the drum heads have been
removed check the bearing edges for cracks in the shell or
bearing edge deformities. Gently rub a bit of candle wax around
the bearing edges to help smooth movement of the skin over the
edge. However, always ensure that all lumps of wax are removed
before fitting the head.
Where natural skin heads are used, always check for holes or deep
'scar' marks. REMEMBER: These were once walking around as part
of an animal and therefore, especially if from the goat, will
have been involved in fights with injuries. Nearly ALL skins
will have some scarring, but they should be checked for
strength. Natural 'variations' in the skin can be used (to your
advantage) to create different tones.
Drums with 'Traditional' Type (e.g., rope) Tensioning
These are more difficult to check for deficiencies
in the bearing edge, unless you are familiar with, and have the
necessary tools to perform the traditional tuning techniques
(e.g., 'mali weave' for traditional djembes). Check the ropes or
thongs for chaffing', splitting and other damage, including loose
knots.
With bodhráns, in addition to the above it is always a
good idea to rub clear dubbin (waterproofing agent for shoes)
into the playing surface of the skin. DO NOT coat the inside
surface as this will make tuning of non-tension models almost
impossible.
Check the exterior finish for deep scratches, evidence of cracks
or other damage.
Always refer back to your point of purchase to follow-up queries
or problems.
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