1. The most common problem is for a mouthpiece to get stuck. Try not to use force to remove. Try gripping the mouthpiece and turning the instrument. We have special equipment which is used to remove the mouthpiece safely. If this happens try to get the instrument and case to school and we will perform the surgery never tap the mouthpiece and never leave it in the instrument when you have finished your practice put it back in the case.

2. WCIT users and parents please do not attempt to oil the valves on the instruments. Every attempt is made to keep these working please tell us if there is a problem

3. This valve cap should always be tight do not turn it anti clockwise This should not be undone if it becomes loose tighten clockwise do not remove the valves

4. The following slides show we maintain the valves. THIS is not recommended for WCIT users Individual students can be coached on the correct use of valve oil and the following slides should help

8. WE ONLY USE THE CORRECT TYPE OF OIL

9. You Must Not Use Anything else!! You will damage the instrument Make It Smell You will have to pay for the repairs

10. You have been warned The valves must not been taken out or dropped

12. Always consult your teacher if you are not sure how to apply valve oil. The purpose of valve oil is to clean, lubricate and fill the air space inside the valves. You should oil the valves of your trumpet before each time you play, preferably without completely removing the valves. This will prevent accidental damage to the pistons. Remove the top cap and pull out the piston far enough to see the valve and apply enough oil to fully cover the surface. (Do not oil the valves from the bottom caps) Using too little oil will not properly lubricate your valves. Using too much oil will not cause any damage to the trumpet. Replace the valve without excessive rotation. As you lower the valve, slowly turn it clockwise until it locks into place. The oil will naturally distribute itself when the valves are depressed. Confirm that the valve has been replaced properly by blowing through the instrument. You will also need to apply oil to the small water key about once a month.

15. Slide Grease Application Always consult your teacher if you are not sure how to apply slide grease. You should grease your slide at least once a month. Remove slide and wipe off the old grease. Apply a bit of grease to one end of one of the slide tubes and re-insert this side. Gently rotate the slide as it is pushed in, evenly distributing the grease to all parts of the slide. Repeat this process with the other end of the slide tube. When completed, insert the slide as normal and remove all excess grease. NEVER use Vaseline in place of slide grease. This will corrode your trumpet.

16. Maintenance Your mouthpiece should not have any dents in the end of the shank. If you notice any dents in your mouthpiece you should immediately take it to a technician for repair. You should grease your slide at least once a month. You should move and grease all slides and bottom caps at least once a month. When bottom caps are removed you can apply a small amount of slide grease to the threads of the cap for easy turning. If the bottom caps are dirty you can wash them in warm water and let dry completely before greasing and reassembling. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE CAPS, MOUTHPIECE OR SLIDES IF THEY BECOME STUCK. A lack of oil and grease will cause the parts of your trumpet to stick. If they do stick take it to a technician immediately for removal. NEVER try to remove stuck parts with pliers or hammers! Wipe off your fingerprints from your trumpet after every use. A clean, non-treated cotton cloth will work the best. If you do choose to use a treated polishing cloth be sure that it is for the proper finish. Using the wrong cloth could cause scratches. Always store your instrument in its case with the lid closed when not in use. This will prevent any excess tarnishing and lower the risk of damage. Do not put anything (including sheet music) inside the case with your instrument that does not belong. Closing the case with extra contents can cause damage to the valves or dents. Also, make sure that all the latches are securely closed before transporting your instrument.

17. RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES: Handkerchief-size soft cleaning cloth (periodically cleaned in the clothes washer) Valve oil (use sparingly) Tuning slide grease (use sparingly) Lacquer polish (made for lacquered brass instruments - non-abrasive - NOT BRASS POLISH) Silver polish (use sparingly - made for silver plated instruments - non-abrasive) Mouthpiece brush Brass instrument "snake" brush for cleaning bore of instrument Mouthpiece pouch (protects mouthpiece from scratches, dings) MOST COMMON REPAIR PROBLEMS: Stuck 2nd valve from slide being crushed in. Stuck slides Braces broken loose from attempting to remove stuck mouthpiece