KNOW THE PARTS OF YOUR HORN
When it comes to replacing parts of your trumpet, basically every single part of it can be replaced. Here we are going to stick to the basic replacement parts like small valve parts. If you need something bigger like the leadpipe replaced, you should take it to a repair shop and have a professional look at it. Unless you are an expert at welding, do not buy large parts online to do replacements on your own. Most of the parts listed here are easily put on with a little common sense, and maybe your teacher’s help.
☑ Don’t forget to always check that the replacement part is made for your trumpet’s brand and model when necessary.
The stopper is a small screw attached to a rod that stops the third slide valve from sliding off the trumpet. In Bach trumpets there are two of them, while Yamaha horns use a single one that looks a little different. These often fall off but luckily can be easily replace with a quick online search.
These mute corks are not for the trumpet but are still replaced very often, which is why they are listed here. These corks keep a mute snug in the bell, but sometimes fall off from wear and tear. Although some come with adhesives for easy application, some don’t, in which case you just need strong glue and a bit of sand paper to sand them down should they be too big. Always be careful when using super glue! Note that harmon mutes do not use this type of cork. Harmon corks are flat, wide, and wrap around the entire edge of the mute.
The third slide ring is sometimes removable, like this one. Although most professional trumpets have it attached to the third slide, most student models will have a removable one, which means it’s likely to get lost. It’s simple to find a replacement though, so no worries!
These are water key corks and there to prevent leaking from the main tuning slide. Over time these corks lose shape and stop putting enough pressure to stop a leak, that’s when they need to be replaced. Some corks are self-adhesive which is very useful and easy to replace. Others will need super glue or heated glue, which you should be very careful using. Be sure to have an adult present to help you. Finally, your trumpet may have an amado key, (a push button style water key) and will not need water key corks.