How to Replace the Pads on a Yamaha Alto Saxophone
The pads on Yamaha alto saxophones help to prevent audible clicking of the keys as you switch from note to note and provide an airtight seal between the keys the pad cups. Replacing the pads is something that needs to be done ocassionally, due to normal wear and tear or extreme temperature changes. Replacing the pads will ensure a clean sound when you play.
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Instructions
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1
Unscrew the keys and remove them from the Yamaha saxophone. Set them aside. Keep them in order to avoid confusion during reassembly.
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2
Clean the saxophone with a clean towel. Wipe the entire body and inside the pad cups, which are the open holes underneath the removed keys.
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3
Polish your keys using a dry, soft cloth or chamois. Do not use a wet cloth. This is not necessary to replace the pads, but "kill two birds with one stone" and polish them while they're disconnected.
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4
Remove the existing pads from inside the pad cups by scraping them clean with a utility knife. Use the side of the blade to scrape the existing pad away from the cup. Do not scrape the brass.
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5
Remove any remaining glue by rubbing the inside of the pad cup with a cloth that has been dampened with very hot water. The hot water loosens the glue and makes it easier to remove.
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6
Dry the inside of the pad cup with a clean cloth.
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7
Add a small amount of glue around the entire perimeter of the inside of the pad cups.
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8
Insert a new pad and gently press it into the glue. Hold the pad with your fingers for a few seconds to ensure it adheres to the glue.
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Let the glue dry for three to four hours before reassembling your Yamaha saxophone.
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