How to Lubricate Trumpet Valves

Lubricate your trumpet with valve oil.

Lubricating a trumpet’s valves is integral to maintaining the instrument’s sound and appearance. Modern day trumpets are constructed with three piston valves that raise and lower the instrument’s pitch when pressed or released. Over time, buildup forms on a trumpet’s valve, leading to wear and the possible need for their replacement. Correctly applying the valve lubrication is necessary to prevent this friction, remove the dirt and debris, and reduce air-leakage, creating a better sounding instrument.

Things You'll Need

• Valve oil
• Microfiber cloth

Instructions

1. Hold your trumpet in your dominant hand as you would during a performance. Drop the trumpet’s bell 45 degrees downward and loosen the first valve’s top cap by turning it counterclockwise.

2. Lift the first valve half-way out of the casing and place three to five drops of the lubricant onto the valve.

3. Lift the valve up and down for approximately five to 10 minutes, rotating it as you go to evenly spread the valve oil.

4. Allow the valve to descend back into the casing and wipe off the valve’s cap with a microfiber cloth. Tighten the valve’s top by turning it clockwise until you hear it snap back into place.

5. Repeat this procedure on the remaining two valves.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply the valve oil one to two times per week.

References

• Zachary Music: Care and Maintenance of Your Trumpet
• Children's Music Workshop: Caring for Your Trumpet