[Harp-L] Seydel Chromatic Springs

[Sheltraw]

I am going to stop by one of our local Fastenal shops to see if they can order a m2.5 machine screw that is partially threaded. 

I am predicting that this partially threaded spring screw plus the stock spring (which is much less stiff than the replacement springs) will yield a very smooth and responsive slider for the Saxony.

If Fastenal can't special order one at a reasonable price does anybody have a suggestion for where to get one. Are the threads on stainless steel small screws like this cut or rolled?

Daniel

Sent from my iPhone

> On May 5, 2017, at 4:44 PM, Sheltraw <macaroni9999 at xxxxx> wrote:
> 
> 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