I have a 3B with inner tubes that have a dull and foggy appearance. I believe it’s been stored in its case for a long period. Wondering what that is. And if it’s possible that chemical ‘off-gassing’ from the inside of the case causes this?

What’s best method to make them slick and shiny again?

I suppose they could be buffed but I’d rather try a milder method first.

Thanks

B-

Maybe 0000 Steel wool but I think it's chrome plating damage.

I usually run them through chemicals and it gets rid of the fog almost immediately. Just take it to your local repair tech and have them clean it.

[quote="Elow"]I usually run them through chemicals and it gets rid of the fog almost immediately. Just take it to your local repair tech and have them clean it.[/quote]

Best advice ALL day!!!

King trombones, at least through the 1990s, had chrome plating on their inner slides that had a slightly different look than most other brands. Whereas Conn, Bach and some others had inner slides with a "high-gloss" look, the Kings had a "slightly-brushed" look. I don't know if it was the chrome alloy or if they left a brushed finish on the slides before applying the chrome plating.

I have not seen too many King pro trombones from the last 15-20 years come through my shop. Most of the newer Kings that have come through have been student models and they have the high-gloss chrome plating. This would make sense because of how Conn-Selmer has streamlined their production. Most likely, an assortment of brands are being made with the same tooling, polishing and plating.

I do not advise that you try to make the earlier King inner slides have a high-gloss look. Buffing the slides could easily remove the chrome playing and leave spots of bare nickel. As advised before, take it to a tech who knows what the slides are supposed to look like.