One More Way to Install Valentino Flute Pads (courtesy of Horn Improvement)

At Horn Improvement, we have used the .110" Valentino pads in place of conventional pads with excellent results. In order to take advantage of the uniformity and consistency of Valentino pads, we have designed a technique using the .080" pads to upgrade step-up flutes to an even higher level of performance.

Here's how we do it:

First, ensure that all the pad cups are level above the tone holes. We want the pad protrusion and thickness shimming to be as consistent as possible. Next, ensure that the tone holes are level. With the new diamond tone hole kits from Jim Schmidt (www.jsengineering.net), this job is much easier than ever before. Of course, low spots are raised with dent tools first.

Now for the fun part! Because the inside of a flute pad is a very inconsistent surface (concave, curved, ridged, etc.) it is a poor surface to attempt to back up an otherwise flat pad. To get a better surface, we install the old Gemeinhardt-style metal washers (Ferrees part #A110, ferreestools@aol.com) into the pad cup. If they seem a bit loose, that is not a problem, as we will glue them in after we check fit.

We suggest putting the footjoint together first to get a feel for the thickness shimming. Thickness shimming is done with plastic shims (J.L. Smith " www.jlsmithco.com). These will not take on moisture like paper shims. The .080" Valentino flute pads allow plenty of room for the .016" metal washer and plastic shims. Put the pad/shim/washer assembly together. Install pad screws and install keys on the instrument. Check thickness and make necessary changes. When thickness is satisfactory, glue metal washers in with 5-minute epoxy. Some minor shifting can be accomplished while the epoxy is soft. After the epoxy sets, any partial shimming can be accomplished with plastic shims.

After shimming is complete, LIGHT clamps can be put on cold for 5-10 minutes to complete the seal. DO NOT OVERSEAT! If the previous steps were correctly followed, the instrument will play without clamping. The consistent nature of Valentino pads makes "deep seats" both unnecessary and counterproductive.

Install key corks/felts and regulate as usual. Deliver to customer.

Thanks to J. L. Smith & Co. for making such a consistent, versatile, and durable pad. A great flute and a happy customer will be the result.

Thanks to Valentino pad user Jeff Peterson for the above instructions. If you would like to share your method, please send it to us.