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French Horn repair and Maintenance

French Horn valves should only be removed and cleaned by a qualified technician

Tuning slides should be removed cleaned and lubricated.
A couple of drops of rotary valve oil should be dropped down each valve port and allowed to penetrate for a couple of minutes. N.B. Do not allow oil to run down the sides of the tubing as this can carry dirt into the valve. Work the oil into the valves by turning them a few times by hand.
Do not force the valve levers down. If the valves are sluggish or seized, turn them gently by the rotor arm using thumb and forefinger until they become free.
If the valves do not become free, repeat the oiling process and leave to stand for 30 minutes before turning the valves again.

If the instrument experiences a period of non usage, it is still important to move the valve levers and lubricate the valves periodically to avoid them drying out and seizing up.

Please note that it is always worth investing in good quality lubricants.
Ensure that the instrument is not stored in an environment prone to temperature or humidity extremes.
Do not use abrasive polishing materials. Use only recommended polishing cloths.
Call our technical department on 01823 338517 if you require any further assistance.