Re: [Harp-L] windsaver problem

[joe leone <3n037@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Mar 14, 2010, at 8:59 AM, captron100@xxxxxxx wrote:

>  Elizabeth wrote:
>
>
> Windsavers that are arcing up on a 2-3 year old chromatic are  
> relatively simple to curve back down by VERY gently smoothing  
> (stroking) them over a rounded surface such as an orange stick  -  
> which is how I do it...then 'pinching' them slightly  
> longitudinally..... The valves are two-part...the top transparent  
> layer is a very thin plastic material designed to act as a 'spring'.
>
>
>  Thanks!  I almost wrote back asking what is an orange stick, but I  
> asked my GF - she told me that it's a tool used on fingernail  
> cuticles.
>   I certainly agree that it behooves everyone to learn to maintain  
> theirinstruments.  But this particular case the guy is an elderly  
> gent, abeginner, and does not have a computer.
>   Question 1: Are ultra-suede valves also 2 part?

No Ronaldo..ultra suede is a fabric. You cut it with a rotary cutter  
(for best results). I always apply waterproofing to make it a little  
stiffer and iron it before I cut it.

>   Question 2 - Is there any preventative maintenance that can be  
> done that can eliminate this arching in the future?

Not really. It's the heat from the breath and moisture that makes the  
plastic stuff curl. I remember we had the same problems back when the  
valves were leather. I am currently experimenting with compressed  
foam and something called Hypalon.

> ron