i dont know about the wrap but DO NOT use steel wool on any chrome components.

http://vintagesnaredrums.com/how_to_vintage_snare.html

that has good info for cleaning.

Make sure you post pictures!

The good news:

I've heard these two specific automotive waxes work wonders on restoring shine to drum shells:

(1) Mothers

(2) Maguires

The bad news:

HOWEVER, I've also heard automotive waxes can cause the finish on the wraps to dry and eventually crack over the years. I have no evidence to supstantiate this, it's just something I heard recently.

They sell polishes specifically made for shining shells, though. I would suggest Trick Drum polish. I've used it on my shells and it does restore shine and without the risk that some feel automotive waxes carry.

Good luck! Wax on. Wax off!

I understand about the steel wool in general, however I have had exceptional results cleaning up older chrome parts with 0000 steel wool which is the finest you can get. I would not use anything coarser than this.

Please tell me why the link says not to do this. I thought this was commonly accepted practice.

Thanks.

I have to admit I do not know why steel wool should not be used, but I do know the webmaster knows alot so I just go by his word. If you would like to know you should ask the Webmaster.

Hello all!

Yes, steel wool is used and still used by many people. The problem is that if not used correctly it does ruin chrome.

In general it is better to say do not use it, since many people not familiar with it will do damage to a drum.

Especially when they use the steel wool without taking the parts off of the shell.

Unless the chrome is of the highest quality it will leave very tiny scratches in the chrome and in the end do damage. Some times it is hard to see and needless to say the damage is done even if it is hard to see.

For sure the chrome on the Japanese stencil kits will get ruined since it is such a lower quality.

So in the end even 4-ott steel will can cause damage and it is probably better not to use it unless the item is loaded with rust.

I would say use it very carefully and on a limited basis and try other methods first prior to going to that step.

It is also not as commonly accepted as it used to be and many vintage people refrain from using it.

David

Webmaster

I've had great luck with Novus #1 Plastic Cleaner followed by Novus #2 Plastic Polish

Aluminum foil works great too. I took a 5-piece BMP Slingerland set from disgusting to mint condition by using the aluminum foil on all the chrome. Just use the shiny side and dip it in water. The dirt comes off as a black liquid, just rinse that and dry. The chrome looks brand new. There were absolutely no scratches either. The wrap was in excellent condition and still is, but i'd love to find a great product to bring the shine out

I have good luck restoring a WMP Ludwig kit by wet sanding the finish, then clear coating with a good enamal. The wet sanding seems to be the only way to clear some of the yellowing inherant in the aging of these kits.

Thanks for the reply. Much appreciated.