Hi,
I have a vintage WFL 14x30 marching bass. From what I've read the keystone badge style puts it in the 1948-1952 range. The shell is mahogany with either a brown or natural finish now mostly flaked off. The hardware is heavily oxidized and I'm not certain if it's nickel or chrome. The interior appears to be unfinished or maybe it was clear at one time. Anything I can find out would be a help. Any thoughts on a value range would be great.
Thanks, Bill
Over a thousand have been sold by the local high school marching bands at public auctions. Probably $100 on a good day. If somebody offers that, then take that money and run! I've seen them in barns. I saw one when drone footage was uploaded after a tornado upended structures up in Arkwright NY.
For being so readily available, the hardware, namely T rods and claws, seems to be all retained on the original shells because I am unable to find replacements for the 10 I'm missing.
Are you sure the shell is 14" deep. It looks deeper to me. If the shell is 14" deep, then they should be pretty easy to find because they would be the same as what was used on the club date bass drums. The big problem is that the replacements will probably cost more than the entire drum is worth. Rick was about right on the price. I did a quick ebay search for WFL Tension and came up with two sets, one which might be the correct ones you need.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/205527245917
You can also search for Ludwig Tension or Ludwig T Rods
Measure an existing rod from under the collar below the handle to the end of the rod. WFL claws should have the WFL stamp on them, but Ludwig ones will not, but are identical otherwise.
Yours look to be nickle. The hardest part would be finding some with similar wear, especially if are planning on leaving it unrestored.
