Gemeinhardt key rod thread size?

[Dave Scothern]

Hi,
We have an old Gemeinhardt flute that we're learning to repair. Unfortunately my daughter was indelicate with unscrewing one of the key rods and damaged it, so we're seeking a replacement. Does anyone know the screw thread that Gemeinhardt used for the key rods on a 2ESP? Is there an industry standard, or does every manufacturer use something different?
Thanks and best regards,
David.

[pied_piper]

Flute rods are not universal and every brand uses different hinge rod sizes, different thread sizes, and different lengths. According to a reference I have, Gemeinhardt uses 1-72 thread on the hinge rods. Each rod on the Gemeinhardt is also a different length. Replacements should be available or a replacement can be made but many manufacturers will only sell parts to repair shops and while a few shops may be willing to order one for you, many shops will only sell parts with service. YMMV.

A lot of shops have what is termed a "bone yard" where they keep various instruments that are not worth repairing so they scavenge them for parts. Your best bet is to take it to a local shop to ask if they might have one as a new replacement or one they can remove from a parts instrument. If not, they would have order one or make one for you in the proper size to match your damaged one.

In your case, which hinge rod is damaged? A photo or two would be useful if you can post it on a photo sharing site and insert a link to it in your next message.

[Dave Scothern]

Hi,
Thankyou for the reply and sorry for the slow response. I contacted Gemeinhardt directly with the serial number and they too said they used 1-72. I acquired a 1-72 die and cut a thread on some 2.4mm rod - the thread is much too small, intriguingly. Gemeinhardt are quite nonplussed! Will get back to you with which rod it is. Thanks again

[JButky]

Hi,
Thankyou for the reply and sorry for the slow response. I contacted Gemeinhardt directly with the serial number and they too said they used 1-72. I acquired a 1-72 die and cut a thread on some 2.4mm rod - the thread is much too small, intriguingly. Gemeinhardt are quite nonplussed! Will get back to you with which rod it is. Thanks again

Double check that you did not also destroy the internal threads. Another rod from the same flute should screw right in. If it doesn't and is like the one you made, then those are gone too and you've got some choices to make on how to repair it..