How to Fix Your Drum's Foot Pedal
The kick drum is the largest drum on a drum set. It sits on the floor and it is played by attaching a foot pedal that has a beater to it. Because the foot pedal has a series of moving parts and is under pressure, parts of the pedal will wear out over time. Luckily, the pedal is relatively easy to fix with a little bit of knowledge.
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Instructions
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1
Disconnect the spring. In order to relieve the pressure on the pedal, pull the spring up at the top of the pedal. This will allow the spring to disengage from the bar holding the beater and will remove the pressure from the pedal. If the spring is broken or worn out, replace the spring by removing it from the adjustment screw at the bottom of the pedal. If it won't come loose, bend the bottom of the spring.
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2
Loosen the set screw holding the beater on the pedal. The beater is the piece that makes contact with the kick drum head. Over time, the beater shaft will bend or the felt on the beater will wear out. Loosen the screw holding it in place. Use a drum key or adjustable wrench to loosen the screw. When replacing the beater, do not overtighten the set screw.
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3
Adjust the spring tension. If the pedal feels too lose or tight when playing, adjust the spring tension. Over time, the spring will loosen and need to be tightened. This is easily done by turning the adjustable nut that is attached to the screw holding the bottom of the spring. Don't overtighten the spring. Usually, only a few turns will be enough.
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4
Lube all moving parts. Using a thin oil such as musical instrument key or valve oil, place a small amount of oil on the moving parts of the pedal. This includes the chain if it has one and the area where the horizontal bar holding the beater passes through the vertical supports of the pedal. Only oil the pedal if it is stiff or making noise.
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