The first valve of my new trumpet is sticking, I have put valve oil and it still sticks. What can I do?

Question

The first valve of my new trumpet is sticking, I have put valve oil and it still sticks. What can I do?

Answer 1

Trumpet valves, as well as their casings are built to very close tolerances. I agree with the advice given to use a recognized synthetic oil, but always the same and sparingly...4 drops is quite enough.  The process of lifting the valve partially out of its casing is correct,usually, but to address the problem of one valv givin particular friction resistance it will be necessary to place a cloth upon a work surface/table and once removed, carefully place the valve upon the cloth.  Look at the valve carefully with both your eyes and fingers. Are there any areas on this new valve that is rubbed/scored or scratched?  If so, it will correspond to an area within the casing/tube or from metal 'slag' that remained behind in the horn and may or may not yet be there.  You can slip your finger in the casing and feel for a rough weld surface or the unlikely still remaining offending piece of 'slag'. If its a filing remove it, a bad weld surface within the casing leave it.  Either way, return this new horn for a replacement...its a lemon.  If it doesnt appear to have filings or a bad weld, but still has a scored valve...replace/return.  No scoring? Most likely there is either such an extremely close tolerance that the valve need be 'overly' oiled,5-8 drops, and given fast repetative play for an extended time to 'break it in,OR...first check for scoring within the valve casing.  If there is it is from either the old offending metal filing not cleaned out after manufacture or, the valve itself has been poorly constructed with one or more of the passage 'holes' not being smooth to the valve...poorly lapped.  Either way, return the horn.  If the warranty is over, its a back of the truck discount sale horn, or your shop is out of business...a brass shop can inexpensively 'lap' (sort of smooth polishing) your valve,casing or both.  BEFORE ANY OF THIS...BE CERTAIN TO CLEAN OUT YOUR CASING AND VALVE.  After all, it might just be some salivated peanut butter and crackers that you usually eat just before or during practise.