[Harp-L] Seydel Chromatic Springs

[Sheltraw]

Hi Greg and Joe

So I made a ferrule to slip over spring screw and protect the spring's coil from the threads of the screw. The first thing I noticed (using the stiffer replacement spring which is all I presently have) is how smooth the slider now feels. Gone are the rough spots that I think are coming from the spring coil bouncing over the screw threads when the slider moves. Yes!!

So I am going to predict that if Seydel were to provide a stainless steel ferrule or use a screw that is only threaded on its distal 1/3 then they could:

(1) Use the stock spring which is less stiff than the replacement spring. I think customers would like that.

(2) Have less friction in the slider and spring assembly. I think customers would like that.

(3) Get fewer complaints of stock spring breaks because the screw threads are no longer cutting into the spring coil. I think Seydel would like that.

Ideally I think having a screw that is only threaded on its distal 1/3 is the ideal solution for two reasons:

(1) Small ferrules could be easily lost by those servicing their Saxony.

(2) The ferrule and spring is a tight fit in the spring cut-away in the comb.

What do you think, Greg? Can this be made to happen?

Daniel

Sent from my iPhone

> On May 5, 2017, at 12:52 PM, Greg Jones <greg at xxxxx> wrote:
> 
> The subject of Seydel chromatic springs has come up and so I wanted to
> clarify some things with regard to this subject.
> 
> Seydel chromatics come stock with a light spring that allows the advanced
> chromatic player a smooth slide action for fast passages.  The spring works
> well for most players and especially those who like a quick slide action.
> However, the Seydel chromatic mouthpiece assembly is designed for maximum
> airtightness and precise fitting parts and as such, it must be kept clean.
> 
> The enemy of a smooth functioning slide is saliva.  Moisture buildup in the
> slide assembly ultimately leads to a sticky buildup on the slide and that
> causes the slide stick and more significantly puts added stress on the
> spring.  Most players do not experience significant problems with the
> springs and in general, players who keep the mouthpiece assembly clean and
> properly adjusted experience even fewer spring breakage.
> 
> Nevertheless Seydel understands that occasionally mechanical parts break
> even under the best of conditions.  Seydel has a replacement spring that is
> sturdier. However, the trade-off is that the slide mechanism with be harder
> to press.
> 
> We still feel like the stock spring is a better option - especially for
> players who play chromatically, but this is a matter of personal
> preference.
> 
> For tips on keeping your Seydel chromatic slide clean, check out the blog
> section of my web site.
> 
> http://www.1623customharmonicas.com/blog
> 
> 
> Greg Jones
> Seydel Technician
> 
> Web Site:        1623customharmonicas.com