so here are the details. i've been using my trumpet for about 6-8 years now and 1 if not 2 valves get stuck on my trumpet. the problem is not the oil as i have over oiled them too and no go. its that when i try to put my valves back in their place and twist them they don't stay in place,move ,and making either my valves stuck or making my trumpet not do a sound. what should i do? repair shop or buy a new one? i hear the clicking sound when i put them back but still all that does is either make my valve more sticky
Trumpet valves have metal or plastic tabs that fit into grooves on the casing. They keep the valve in allignment. It sounds like the tabs on your horn could be broken. I suggest letting a repair shop do the work.
Your first step is to clean the valves and the casings. You'll need a casing brush or soft cloth you can run through the casing to clean them. Start with warm soapy water (dish washing soap) then clean them with alcohol--if you don't have alcohol use a water with a little vinegar added. You may need to let the valves soak a bit to loosen everything up. Remove the soap and alcohol from the casings and the tubing--rinse the valves and pat them dry. Inspect them for damage, if none is found then oil the valves and re-install them. If that doesn't work take it to a shop. Don't try lapping your valves yourself.
You really need valve oil I have used olive oil in a pinch
