mwc9725e - Posted - 01/15/2012:  09:31:31

Not sure this is the right forum, but is there anything I should be doing to keep the skin head on my old open backed banjos in good condition? I have two such banjos, a Supertone and a Lyon&Healy Professional model, and I've heard the heads are supposed to be "oiled(?)" now and then; But I'd hate to go off half cocked, without knowing what I'm doing. Thanks for any suggestions.

Bill martin

jbalch - Posted - 01/15/2012:  09:44:12

If the hide is in good shape, it really does not require any maintenance.  You can clean it using a white eraser.  But personally I prefer to let mine age and be naturally dirty.  Just avoid over tightening. 

Whatever you do, don't put oil or moisture on it. 

I've had banjos with heads that were many decades old.  They were fine and dependable.  I just played and enjoyed them.

 But sooner or later, any natural skin head may break.  If that happens don't worry, they are easily replaceable. 

I'll link this to the Hide Heads gruop for more input.  banjohangout.org/group/hideheads

mwc9725e - Posted - 01/15/2012:  09:49:57

quote:

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Originally posted by jbalch

If the hide is in good shape, it really does not require any maintenance.  You can clean it using a white eraser.  But personally I prefer to let mine age and be naturally dirty.  Just avoid over tightening. 

Whatever you do, don't put oil or moisture on it. 

I've had banjos with heads that were many decades old.  They were fine and dependable.  I just played and enjoyed them.

 But sooner or later, any natural skin head may break.  If that happens don't worry, they are easily replaceable. 

I'll link this to the Hide Heads gruop for more input.  banjohangout.org/group/hideheads

 

 

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 Thanks, it sounds like I should be happy I didn't oil it. The head looks very old, but undamaged, on both of them, so I think I'll follow your suggestion and just leave'em be.

George Flink - Posted - 01/15/2012:  11:16:17

Don't leave it arround where your dog can reach it. Ours wouyld give it an appraising lick when he passed it.

Bufo Bill - Posted - 01/16/2012:  14:19:45

That's a great question and a great answer.
Re: the dog, perhaps it could be arranged for a return contribution to be made if he ever did trash your skin?
All the best from Bill.

tomberghan - Posted - 01/17/2012:  04:31:09

I suggest you join the "hide heads" group (or at least read their posts). You will not find more expert advice anywhere:
banjohangout.org/group/hideheads

Oh, and as stated above don't put oil on your head.
Have fun! I also am a hide head player. Best Wishes, Tom