How to Replace the Neck Cork on a Saxophone

A saxophone is a beautiful instrument that can be repaired at home.

The neck cork of a saxophone is an important piece of the instrument that's often overlooked when troubleshooting a saxophone doesn’t sound right. A chipped or loose cork should be replaced to restore proper sound. To figure out of your cork requires replacement, try moving your mouthpiece. It should fit tight in all positions on the neck. If it wobbles, it is time to replace the neck cork.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton swab or ball
• Lacquer thinner
• Measuring tape
• Replacement cork
• Razor blade
• Contact cement
• Electrical tape
• 100-grit sandpaper
• Rag

Instructions

1. Remove the old cork by taking off the mouthpiece and scraping the existing cork off with your fingers until the adhesive is exposed. Soak a cotton ball or cotton swab in lacquer thinner and rub the adhesive with thinner until it dissolves.

2. Measure the width of the neck using a piece of flexible measuring tape. Cut a piece of cork using a razor blade that covers the width, plus an extra 1/4 inch.

3. Prepare the cork piece by gently bending it back and forth until it becomes flexible. This will prevent it from cracking when it's wrapped around the neck. Cut a small 45-degree bevel out of one end of the cork using the razor blade to allow for some overlap when it's placed on the saxophone.

4. Apply a thin layer of contact cement to the neck and one side of the cork. Allow the cement to dry for 15 minutes. Once the cement dries, the two pieces will bond instantly when pressed together.

5. Attach the cork to the neck, starting with the beveled end pressed firmly onto the neck. Continue wrapping the cork around the neck, smoothing it tight as you go. Overlap the cork over the beveled area at the end of the cork, cutting off any excess.

6. Wrap electrical tape on the neck in between the cork and the octave key. This protects the saxophone from damage while working on the cork.

7. Sand the cork evenly with 100-grit sandpaper, periodically fitting the mouthpiece over the cork until you achieve a tight fit. Brush the cork clean using your hands or a rag to remove any grit or dust.

8. Remove the electrical tape and clean the instrument as you normally would.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact cement can be purchased at a home supply store. Avoid getting lacquer thinner on the brass of the instrument.

• Do not scrape off cork with the razor, as this may damage the instrument.

References

• Fowler Music: Saxophone Neck Cork Replacement