robpeek - Posted - 05/07/2019:  23:48:43

Hey everyone,
I’m pretty new to BHO, and definitely new to repairing banjos, and hoping you guys can give me some advice on a project.
My grandpa was an amateur luthier who recently passed away. I inherited a bunch of his instruments and projects, and one of them was an Orpheum No 2 that he clearly intended to fix up, but sadly ran out of time. I aim to finish this one in his memory.
It was in pieces when we found it, but everything is there and all in stable condition, except for the head which will need to be replaced.
So far, I’ve given the wood a VERY light buff with super fine steel wool and a thin coat of oil/vinegar/lemon juice to shine it up. I’ve also reassembled the tone ring assembly and brackets, and fixed up a couple of spots on the neck.
My first question is on the tailpiece. I’m not sure if I’m missing a part, but I can’t find a good picture online showing how this piece should sit. I’m also wondering if I should just get a new one.
I will also need to find a new bridge and head, and I’m curious what the best options are and where to get them.
Lastly, I’m really open to any advice and suggestions you guys can throw at me. My goal is just to get it playable and sounding nice so I can keep passing it along the family line as my grandpa would have wanted.
I’ve included some “before” and “in-progress” photos, as well as a picture of the tailpiece in question.
Any help y’all can give would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks everyone!

 

Bob Smakula - Posted - 05/08/2019:  04:56:33

The tailpiece pictured is from a Gretsch tenor banjo or banjo uke. Though not original, it will be functional.



I stock heads for many banjos. Orpheum tenor banjos that are close to 11" will be 11-1/8" medium crown. If your rim is close to 12", it could be 12-1/8", 12-3/16", or 12-1/4". The 12-1/8" heads are a "catalog" Remo size and reasonably priced. The larger ones are custom made and significantly more expensive. If the rim is in the 12" range, a circumference will be necessary to make sure we get you the right head.



Take a look at my banjo head web page for options and pricing; smakula.com/BanjoHeads.html



Bob Smakula

smakula.com

G Edward Porgie - Posted - 05/08/2019:  06:50:57

So far, so good on your reassembly.

Orpheums usually had an "Elite" tailpiece, which was made by Lange, but so long as this one doesn't bite into edge of the "archtop" head there should be no problem with the one you have.

Bob Smakula has outlined the head sizes used on these. Orpheum used more than one rim size, so it's important to measure accurately.

robpeek - Posted - 05/08/2019:  23:15:58

Thanks for the input, guys.
I measured the rim at about 12 1/4”, and I haven’t been able to find a head at any local shops or online. I’m assuming this means I’ll need to custom order something?

I have no clue about the tailpiece yet. I’m missing some kind of nut to hold it in place, but I still haven’t decided if I want to just order a new one. I’m not holding out for an original part, but I’d like to stay true to the period if at all possible.