Posted by Bob on March 24, 1999 at 09:21:11:
In Reply to: Rotary Valves Problem posted by Howard on March 24, 1999 at 01:49:40:
You have one of two problems. The bearings on rotary valves are on the ends. You get to the bottom bearing by removing the bottom cap (it unscrews). The bearing is in the center of what you see after you take off the cap. Put one or two drops of key oil on the bearing and work the valve to get the oil down in the bearing. Do this for all 4 valves. Then, turn the horn over and put a drop of key oil on the shaft between the arm and the valve body. Again, work the valve to get the oil down into the bearing. Do this for all 4 valves. Putting oil in the slides libricates the valve body but not the bearings.
The second problem is that the horn may have had packing oil in the valves for shipping. My son's French Horn was like that. If this is the case, take it to a competent repair person and have the valves cleaned. Then oil as above.