Collet tensioners are crap. Cast and crack. On that Londoner V you will have six. David Drew at Drews Music, Woonsocket RI... has machined replacements. Original machined also fit
Thank you,
Well its good to know if you do have one break you can replace it with an improved part.
XP8 drum are Fullerton era. And you already know how good those are. Earlier painted interior shells with rerings are excellent drums.
Yes. The collet tensioners go bad over time and I have a few running cracks on the wrap of my FT, due to re-designed (lighter/cheaper to make) Beavertail lugs (I'm guessing).
I bought my Fullerton "Starlighter" in 1976, but it was an earlier Swivo-matic model. Through high school, college, and into my playing career, I loved that kit and never thought of selling it (practice/teaching kit now). Loved the sound of that Fullerton until a few years ago I happened upon a cherry 4 piece, blue glitter glass, Cleveland kit that were kept in cases for the last 30+ years....and Wow! What a difference! heavier Beavertails, easier to tune and a beautiful sustain.
The Fullerton Lugs are lighter... and so are speckled gray Dayton era lugs, when compared to the earlier Cleveland era 2nd generation lug. First Gen Cleveland lugs are fragile, and will snap the lug bosses off if over tightened. Later era lugs were less massive, but no less functional.
Cracks in the wrap occur in every color, every era. This has nothing to do with the lugs. It does have a lot to do with environmental exposure, end user care and abuse, and the changing of state and federal epa regulations over time. Glues changed. Some weren't as good.
I wouldn't worry too much about lugs and wrap issues, from what you've described it's a players kit. As long as the shells are in good condition, you'll have a great sounding kit.
Okay, so hearing both sides is good. I think I will purchase the drums givin the price is so low. They are USA made drums and not the import ones. Other than the Collet tensioners being crap they are Rogers drums and a few guys here really like them and claim they sound great, we all cant afford top of the line. And, with my woodworking skills this set will end up looking pretty nice. I have looked at the finish charts from the early 70's and dont see a wrap that Im in love with. So that said, it will most likely a veneer.
I wouldn't worry too much about lugs and wrap issues, from what you've described it's a players kit. As long as the shells are in good condition, you'll have a great sounding kit.
Thanks Mark! Your one guy that has played several different kits so I take your advice with confidence.
I also take the negative advice serious as well, I know I might have to replace some parts down the road but sounds like they are available. I miss my Rogers drums and have always wanted another kit. This deal will make it possible and I wont have to spend my life savings. Players kits are fine with me.
Thanks again everyone!
Hey Jeff! Of course, the big question on everyone's mind will be what type of veneer and stain will you go with!
-Mark
