I would jump all over the 60s kit!

The 60's set should have machined collets. There were not in place until around 1972.

If someone put cast collets on the set, then replace them. Don't let the collets be the deciding factor.

Thanks Amos.

They mention that the collets are cracked, and I think maybe the look cast from the photos, but ??*???

BTW, when people mention "collets", are they generally referring to this part?

[IMG]https://images.reverb.com/image/upload/s--_bw1ErHT--/a_0/f_auto,t_supersize/v1666197275/wbvnjbwmwlrixtmr2rod.jpg[/IMG]

or is it the the outer "nose"?

[IMG]https://images.reverb.com/image/upload/s--WLOb_Tv4--/f_auto,t_large/v1537369509/k34mjx8ndf0ncrp9c1gd.jpg[/IMG]

Also, any thoughts on the drooping/sliding question? With new collets will the tom stay in place reliably?

Thanks!

The collet is just the nose part, with 2 handles in place. The picture is of the cast type. The machine type have more distinct flat (not rounded) ends.

Either kit will serve you well.

The Spanish Gold kit is more unique, as 20" Big R drums are quite uncommon. SG is also uncommon. Memri-lock h/w is indestructible. Big R has a much much smaller fanbase than compared to Swivo era. My opinion is this kit is still quite overpriced at $1400.

As amos says, you just need to replace the die cast noses on the red onyx kit and you'll be good. $55-$65 each for machined repros or originals with the pat pend inscription. The wrap cracks bother me, but you're not looking for a collectible example here. On the other hand, that SG may very well be a collectible example of the era in 20 years.

Choices!

Thanks a ton LevelPebble and Amos!

What would you guess is the market rate for the Big R kit? $1k-ish?

Could you give me some sense of how well the swivomatic hardware works (with good parts)? Is it easy enough to setup and make adjustments or is it a bit balky? Does it do a good job of holding the tom in place or are you typically fighting droop/slip/sag?

Thanks!

I'm not an authority or collector of Big R drums, so all I can do is WAG at the right price.

Ohio-based Rogers hardware is the best you will ever find, IF IF IF you use it correctly and as designed. DONT overtighten the noses, and they wont bind. DONT use four screws on the tom mount, even though there are four holes. Just use two, 90 degrees apart, as designed, to push the ball against the socket -> no sag, no wear.

I buy, restore, and resell Ludwig. I buy, restore, and KEEP Rogers.

Thanks so much John, that's exactly the information I was looking for.

Really appreciate all the help on this.

To answer your question, if the collets don’t tighten up any more, the drum will slide off the hex bar. Or, the hex bar will not stay tight on the double tom mount. Or, you will torque them down so tightly to prevent movement that you will need a wrench to loosen them again once they are in place.

I also think those Memri-Loc drums are over-priced, but they will be less of a headache to you if you can get them at a better pricepoint.

Good luck!!

Josh