Get to Know the Parts of Your Trumpet
Almost every part on your trumpet can be replaced. However, here we will mostly talk about basic replacements such as small valve parts. If you need to replace a large part, such as a leadpipe, it is best to take it to a repair shop rather than trying to do it yourself. Unless you are an expert in welding, you should not order large parts online and try to replace them yourself. Most of the parts mentioned in this article can be easily fitted with a little care and perhaps with the help of your teacher.
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☑ When buying a new part, be sure to check the model and make match!
TROMPET VALVE
Have you ever removed the valves of your trumpet? If you do, you will see a picture like this. Except for the piston itself, most of the small parts can be easily replaced if necessary. If you are an experienced musician, remember that even the slightest change will change the feel of your instrument. All the parts listed here are located inside the valve seat. Now, let's examine these parts from top to bottom:
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Finger switch: Each brand may have a different valve cover design. If you need to replace it, make sure you choose a compatible model. Most people lose these, but there are plenty of them on the market, and you can even find them in different colors.
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Valve cover seal: The seal that supports the valve cover may not always be felt. Some trumpet brands use a strong black rubber material. These are readily available in music stores and online platforms. I remember using red and green ones when I was little!
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Top valve cover: Replacement is quite simple. You can easily find a new one by identifying the make of your trumpet and contacting the manufacturer or by searching for parts online.
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Body seal: This small seal acts as a buffer between the upper valve cover and the bottom of the body. If it's missing, the valve will make an annoying noise when returning. Fortunately, it is both affordable and easily available.
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Stem: Without the stem, the valve will not work. If you need to replace it, choose a suitable part for your current brand and fit it carefully. However, this part rarely needs to be replaced.
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Spring: As the name suggests, this is the part that gives the valve mechanism its springing action. Different manufacturers offer different types of springs, and some claim to be more responsive. It's best to try a few different models!
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Valve guide: This part functions to guide the valve, keeping it in the correct position. Most trumpets have only one correct placement of the valve guide. If you get it wrong, no air will pass through your trumpet. You can usually twist the valve into place, but it is best to determine the correct orientation by removing the valve and looking inside the seat. You don't want to scratch the valve or the seat with the wrong movement.
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Valve (piston): The most important component of the trumpet, the piston is the heart of the valve. If you have a problem with the piston (for example, if it doesn't work properly despite regular lubrication and cleaning), you should have it checked by a specialist. If you neglect to maintain the piston, it can lose its lubrication and be very expensive to repair.
Other common replacement parts
Slider Stopper
Third Slider Ring
Main Tuning Slide Water Drain Plug
The slide stop is a small screw mounted on the rod that prevents the third slide valve from coming out completely. Bach trumpets have two, while Yamaha models have a single stopper and a slightly different design.
These parts can fall off and get lost over time, but don't worry - you can easily get a new one from online stores. Be careful not to lose this little piece, though, because it's essential for controlling the slide action!
The third slide ring is fixed on some models and removable on others. Professional trumpets usually come integrated into the slide, while student models use replaceable rings. This makes them more prone to loss.
If you're missing a ring, you should definitely get a new one, because it's essential for tuning certain notes correctly. Fortunately, finding a replacement is quite simple, so you shouldn't have any problems!
The water drain plug on the main tuning slide is there to prevent air and moisture from escaping. This part, also called the spit valve cork, can lose shape over time and become unable to exert enough pressure. In this case, it must be replaced with a new one.
Some plugs are self-adhesive, which makes their installation quite easy. However, some models require super glue or heat-applied adhesive - be careful when using such adhesives and seek the help of an adult if necessary.
Finally, if your trumpet is equipped with an Amado switch (button-style water drain mechanism), you will not need such plugs.
Where to buy replacement parts for trumpet
Find replacement trumpet parts and guidance on what you may need at the following retailers.