Subject: [Harp-L] Chromatica query

[EGS1217@xxxxxxx]

Wm. Galley writes;
 
"G'day Harp folks --  I have a fairly OLD Hohner 260/40  Chromatica -- The 5 
hole Blow
(slide in OR out) gives a note that  (gently blown,) is fine,  but blow any 
harder and it
has a very  very fine vibrato like sound to it; pitch is still correct.
At the back, the comb shows a vertical fine crack, in the  area of the 5 
hole;  I've 
filled that with warm bees wax, and  still get that unwanted sound.
Is it  possible the crack goes right from back to front, and would be the 
cause  of my problem?   If some of you say that is possible, I'll  disassemble 
and see if I can make a fix.   Thanx -- BG -  Ca"
 
....Yes!    If you take off the cover  plates....perhaps the mouthpiece as 
well, you should be able to see that  same crack running right through the 
harmonica, front to back, in effect  separating it into two halves.  I don't know 
that much about  cementing a wood body together, but don't think bees wax is 
the material  of choice.  Possibly wood filler...wood cement...gorilla glue? 
would  be better choices.  I'd personally replace the wood body if it was at  all 
possible (buy another 260 off EBay - they're fairly inexpensive --just  make 
sure to extensively query the seller as to any cracks...hairline or  
otherwise....and use for replacement parts).  They can be had for  anywhere from $9.99 
up to $20. U.S.
 
If replacing the body is too much of an ordeal (and would be for  me)....then 
perhaps sending it to Hohner for replacement of the body  would be the best 
solution (depending on the cost)?
 
Elizabeth