[HAM] Hammond Percussion

[Christoph P. Kukulies]

On Tue, Jan 08, 2008 at 10:48:15AM -0600, Jordan Kersten wrote:
> 
> There is that conversion kit that I think uses PC boards but the cost
> is about $270. Has anyone successfully used M3 drawbars to make a
> set?

I have used, I believe it was 3 sets of an M3 to convert ratchet
drawbars to smooth ones.

I did it "the hard way":

First I grinded down the bakelite guiding pieces to a point where
they were even to the thickness of the broad drawbar busses, the original ones
of the ratchet unit.
Then I soldered the narrower silver drawbar busses of the M3-units on to the
flat broad original bars. I applied soldering grease for better solder flow
and thorough cleaning is recommended afterwards.

Of course the "modern" double contact springs should be used. Watch that thin
1 Ohm wire so that you don't break it while pulling the unit apart or while
handling the contact pieces.

If you have to use the old drawbar rods, note that these are straight and the
newer ones are bent under an angle of say 20 degrees. Either you bend the 
old ones or use the M3 ones. But then you need drawbars of one series
as to the number plate font. There are so many different number plate types
Also the M3 drawbar rods have an additional guidance blade spring.
Rip that off. Last not least you will have to file here and there so that
the drawbars go in down to zero and nothing gets stuck or jams.

> 
> 
> I am currently working on this right now, actually.  I get the M drawbars thursday.  I will let you all know how it turns out.
> 
> 

--
Chris Christoph P. U. Kukulies kuku_at_kukulies.org