Caring For Your Trumpet's Valves
Trumpet valves require oil and regular cleaning to function properly. They are easily damaged if not cared for.
Trumpet valves are prone to problems if they are not cared for on a regular basis. Oil, dents, dirt, and other issues can make trumpet valves stop working properly.
Your new trumpet's valves are perhaps the most important part of your instrument. The valves are also the most delicate part of the trumpet and are prone to many different problems. This article will attempt to show you how to care for your trumpet's valves and prevent you from needing a trip to the repair shop.
Trumpet valves must be well lubricated in order to move easily. You should apply trumpet valve oil to your valves on a regular basis. Don't wait until the valves begin to move slowly or begin to stick, instead be proactive and apply oil every other practice session or so. If you notice that you are applying too much oil or if the valves are obviously well lubricated you can cut this back to every third practice session or whatever seems to work for you. The most important thing is to avoid friction inside the valve as the valve moves inside the outer casing. If you see streaks of discoloration on the inner valves it may be caused by your valves rubbing without lubrication and the friction has worn away the protective plating on the inner valve.
Another important part of caring for your trumpet's valves involves cleaning them regularly. Oil attracts dirt, and if you remove the lower valve casings you may see a blob of this dirt caked into the bottom of the valve cap. Clean these caps and also clean the inside of the outer valve casing with a clean cloth wrapped around your index finger.
An often overlooked part of caring for your trumpet's valves involves preventing damage from accidental impacts. Even the slightest dent in the outer valve casings can make render the valve inoperable. You can purchase leather or cloth valve wraps to help prevent minor dents and also to protect the finish of your trumpet from the oils on your fingertips. Along the same line, valves can also be damaged when the tuning slides are hit or pushed in toward the body of the instrument. When a tuning slide is struck it can literally bend the outer valve casing where it connects to the slide. This casing being bent out of shape can cause the valve to stick.
For more information on cleaning and caring for your trumpet check out my other Suite101 article on fixing common trumpet problems.
