Axial lubrication

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sacfxdx
Posts: 406
Joined: Apr 11, 2018

by sacfxdx »

I've noticed that the Gb valve gets dry long before the F valve when left on the stand. Is that because of the orientation of the valve? It's the top valve when on the stand. The F valve never seem to get dry. I still oil them regularly anyway.

Just wondering if anyone else has noticed this.
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JCBone
Posts: 373
Joined: Jul 29, 2020

by JCBone »

Just a guess but maybe is the valve damaged?
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sacfxdx
Posts: 406
Joined: Apr 11, 2018

by sacfxdx »

it works OK if I keep it oiled but that could be the issue. I'll keep that in mind.
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MTbassbone
Posts: 558
Joined: Apr 21, 2018

by MTbassbone »

I would recommend disassembling the valve, cleaning it, and inspecting it for anything usual. Then reassemble the valves to see if there is any noticeable difference. Is it possible the valve cores were switched in error when it was last serviced? If that doesn't work then its time to talk to an experienced tech just to make sure there isn't anything wrong with the valve.
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sacfxdx
Posts: 406
Joined: Apr 11, 2018

by sacfxdx »

Thanks for the replies. I am hoping its not damaged. I won't rule that out. I did get it used so that's a possibility.

Anyone have a ballpark cost to replace an axial value if defective?
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MTbassbone
Posts: 558
Joined: Apr 21, 2018

by MTbassbone »

Steve, I wouldn't worry too much about that at this point. If there is truly a problem there is a good chance it can be fixed. In the event the valve is toast you could consider the Instrument Innovations Axial Flow Valve. Here is a link:

<LINK_TEXT text="https://instrumentinnovations.com/instr ... low-valve/">https://instrumentinnovations.com/instrument-innovations-bass-patented-axial-flow-valve/</LINK_TEXT>
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sacfxdx
Posts: 406
Joined: Apr 11, 2018

by sacfxdx »

Thanks for the link MTbassbone.
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elmsandr
Posts: 1373
Joined: Mar 23, 2018

by elmsandr »

The difference is at the margins, but yes, my Gb valve also gets dry before my F valve. Both generally want a little bit of oil before quitting for the day as well as a couple of drops before starting up again. The difference to me seems to be that the oil will tend to collect at the bearing cone of the F valve or in the tubing hanging out below the valve on the F. It then either gurgles (and I drain it like a horn player) or goes back to the valve while playing. With the Gb, it seems to drain more into the F valve.

Axials like oil.

Cheers,

Andy