1960's Paiste Formula 602 22" Ride (pre-serial) with two cracks in the bell. I have attached a picture showing the damage. Red lines show the cracks.
Should I have two holes professionally drilled at the end of each crack (black circles) or should I not be concerned? Should this cymbal not be "crashed" anymore?
Thanks,
Tim
If it's not buzzing, don't mess with it & use it for a light ride. Drilling holes to stop the cracks in the bell region will only further weaken the bell & eventually lead to the entire bell structure failing. Make sure it is well cushioned when to mount it, do not clamp it tight & just let it swing a little...you can still spank her a little with the shank/shoulder of the stick but don't crash it! If you play jazz this would be a good situation for this cymbal.
Just my 2 cents
Dan
If you have any mechanical apitude, drilling the ends of the cracks shouldn't be too difficult.
If I may recommend a few things I have learned, Check with a j.ewelers loop before the repair to see as best as possible as to where the crack really ends, then proceed as follows:
1. Use an awl to punch a small dent in the cymbal for the drill bit.
2. I use an 1/8" bit and try to make the outer edge of the hole end a fraction before the crack.
3. Use a slow speed and a little oil on the spot where you are drilling and have a steady surface such as wood underneath the cymbal.
4. After drilling I use a very small round file to smooth it all out.
5. When playing the cymbal after repair, don't use a felt and nut to hold down the cymbal, let it breathe and move freely
Check the area every so often to make sure all cracks are not spreading, or new ones developed.
I have 2 Paiste 602 pre-serial with cracks that have been drilled out, and I play them like every other cymbal.
Good Luck!
Great feedback. Should the crack that is sticking up be made flush again?
- Tim
That's what I was thinking too. I am sure there is some pressure in that lifted crack.
- Tim
Guys sometimes dremel out the crack, so it won't buzz. You might want to do that to the one that's overlapped. Also, if you know anyone with a good grommet set-up, you could grommet the hole. That would really keep the cracks out of play.......marko
I was just going to say use a grommet
I have one (22" 602) with cracks in the bell. I'm just waiting and watching. No change since I've had it. I try to remember the surgeon's creed: "do no harm"
$00.02
Well, for 15 years ago i would said --no troubles! -- Take it and run to the lazer-weld lab. :)
But today it's not so easy available... :(
George.
