Apologies if this topic has been discussed elsewhere, but after taking a couple of months break from playing my flute I've taken it out and noticed an issue.
When I play the F key (right-hand index) it closes the key next to it (one up the flute) and the key in the middle of the left hand, exactly how it should. However, when I play the E key or D key the F key is closing along with it.
I've taken a careful look at the mechanisms and it seems like the F key is being moved whenever the one next to it (one above) moves. I've checked everything for stickiness and there is none. None of the bits look out of place either. I've spent the last couple of hours trying to diagnose where the problem might be and if it's possible for me to fix. The best idea I've got is that the metal tubes themselves may be sticking so the tube the F key is attached to is being moved when it shouldn't be.
Is this a commonly known issue? Is it something I may be able to fix myself? I would very much like to avoid sending my flute off to repairs since it will be very costly and this issue is only affecting a few notes in a minor way (mainly F# trills). This flute is an old family heirloom I want to keep in good shape. If any more details are needed then please ask away and I can even make videos/pictures if required.
F key moving with E and D key
Moderators: Classitar, pied_piper, Phineas
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pied_piper
- Posts: 1962
- Joined: Sat Mar 31, 2007 1:31 pm
- Location: Virginia
Re: F key moving with E and D key
There's a good chance the F key spring has come unhooked or broke. Other possibilities include a bent hinge rod or the hinge rod oil has dried and causes the key move with others.
When was the last time you had your flute serviced? Depending upon how much it is played, it should be serviced every year or two. I'd suggest that it may be time to consult a flute technician.
When was the last time you had your flute serviced? Depending upon how much it is played, it should be serviced every year or two. I'd suggest that it may be time to consult a flute technician.
"Never give a flute player a screwdriver."
--anonymous--
--anonymous--
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BeatboxFlute
- Posts: 2
- Joined: Sat Jun 15, 2019 2:45 pm
Re: F key moving with E and D key
Thanks very much for the ideas, I'll investigate and get back to you. I never play my flute as much as I'd like and have taken breaks of nearly a year at times, so I'm guessing the use has not been extreme but the last service was probably 8 years ago. I take very good care of it and everything was working when I put it away ~3 months ago so my guess is it's the hinge rod oil.
Re: F key moving with E and D key
Dear BeatboxFlute,
Don't take this as a personal attack, please.
Typical flute player. If it plays at all, it's in good shape. NOT! You should have your flute checked yearly. Pads need work to keep them sealing well IMHO. The sound degrades, and the projection deteriorates over time. You simply get used to how it sounds as the sound degrades. Find a good repair man (few and far between), and let him check your flute yearly. You will be much happier with the sound and the play-ability.
Mark
Don't take this as a personal attack, please.
Typical flute player. If it plays at all, it's in good shape. NOT! You should have your flute checked yearly. Pads need work to keep them sealing well IMHO. The sound degrades, and the projection deteriorates over time. You simply get used to how it sounds as the sound degrades. Find a good repair man (few and far between), and let him check your flute yearly. You will be much happier with the sound and the play-ability.
Mark