New england white wrap repair/restoration - Page 1

Hi,

I'm new here and recently became the proud owner of a 1974 Rogers kit in New England White.

1. I'm currently in the process of stripping the hardware and cleaning the lugs. I understand the wrap is made of Formica, and I was wondering what the best method is to clean and restore it. The wrap has:

A. Snare rash — dents and deep scratches on the 14" tom, exposing the brown layer underneath.

B. Some marks, possibly from rubbing against metal on the 13" tom.

C. Brown glue residue at the wrap overlap, with small areas where the wrap is slightly peeling (just a couple of millimetres).

Please see the photos below.

Q1. What products should I use, and in what order?

2. The speckled grey interior paint has flaked off in some areas, and I'm concerned that more may come off if I wipe it down.

Q2. Do I need to do anything about this, and if so, how can I fix it? can i spray with a matte clear acrylic spray (e.g., Krylon Crystal Clear Matte) to fix the existing grey paint?

3. I’ve noticed that the new Rogers line now offers these "Rogers Beavertail Small Tom Gaskets (10pcs)".

https://www.gear4music.com/Drums-and-Percussion/Rogers-Beavertail-Small-Tom-Gaskets-10pcs/5WJ2

They seem like a good way to tidy things up and protect the wrap from further damage. Since they’re reversible and non-invasive, I thought they might be a neat solution.

Q3. Do you think this is a good idea?

Any thoughts, advice, or input would be deeply appreciated.

Kind regards,

Francesco

You can try to remove the glue with Mineral Spirits (paint thinner), denatured alcohol or as a last resort try some lacquer thinner. In all cases, try on a spot under a lug first to make sure it won't damage the outer layer.

There are some Formica touch up paints available that might be the best bet to touch up the gouges. I would try to remove the surface blemishes with some automotive paint cleaner. You might be able to use a mild kitchen scouring paste or powder, since Formica is used for countertops.

As far as lug gaskets, I wouldn't waste my time and money if it were me. Gaskets are just a current marketing fad. They can negatively affect the sound of the drum by isolating the lugs from the shells, and since the entire drum is a vibrating instrument, isolating part of the drum is counteproductive. How many guitars or other stringed instruments have parts isolated with rubber gaskets? None. Your drum has had the lugs installed directly on the shell for the past 50 years, so I don't think you have anything to worry about as far as damage.