Gurdy Wheel Rubs On Instrument - Help?

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Apryl Knight

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Jul 6, 2015, 6:10:41 PM7/6/15
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My Balázs Nagy hurdy gurdy's wheel seems to have changed a bit since I bought it, and a small section of the wheel now rubs on the edge of the wheel opening on the face of the gurdy.  It's not a large section - perhaps only an inch wide.  How should I go about fixing this?  A friend suggested using fine grit sandpaper to carefully wear down just that small section on the side of the wheel, but I wanted to check with you all first before I did anything.

Also, as a secondary issue, the tone of the gurdy is a bit scratchy more often than not (I notice this when I'm playing with just the melody strings engaged, and no drone or trompette).  Is there a way to smooth out the sound?

Thanks!

Apryl Knight
Music from many times and many lands on WAY too many instruments

gurdymaker

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Jul 7, 2015, 3:51:43 AM7/7/15
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Solid wood wheels are always on the move , some more than others. A safe and simple way is to get a medium grit (220 or thereabouts ) wet and dry paper . Slip it between the wheel and the opening - sanding side to the wheel ! And hold it there while spinning the wheel . The first rotation may catch on the paper but it should get easier . Keep changing the paper contact point .
You say the tone is getting harsh. This points to the instrument getting very dry which may also explain the wheel warp. Maybe it's been left out in the sun ? The answer is to shim up the chanters with paper to lessen the pressure on the wheel.
Try keeping it in the bathroom for a few days, that might fix the wheel and the tone !
Best regards
Neil

Billy Horne

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Jul 7, 2015, 5:03:44 AM7/7/15
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Hi, I would talk with Balazs,and explain when it started and ............
Billy Horne
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Apryl Knight

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Jul 7, 2015, 2:26:08 PM7/7/15
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Pretty much all of my gigs are out of doors, with relatively high humidity but lots of sun (assuming it doesn’t rain!), but then, when at home, I store the gurdy in my office with the rest of my instruments, and I’ve got good air conditioning (since I live in Texas, it’s kind of a must), but relatively low humidity.  I’ll start storing the gurdy in the bedroom, which has an en suite bathroom - perhaps that will fix it up in the long term.

Thanks so much for the sandpaper information!


Apryl Knight
Music from many times and many lands on WAY too many instruments
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Felicia Dale

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Aug 4, 2015, 5:53:53 PM8/4/15
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http://seattle.craigslist.org/oly/muc/5154837896.html

Looking for a pro to do some recording work. It’s too far for me…

Felicia.

Felicia Dale

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Nov 3, 2015, 5:41:21 PM11/3/15
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Hi, ya’ll,
I have an acquaintance looking for gurdy instruction in the D. C. area. Anyone have any leads?

Thanks,
Felicia.

David Gillett

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Nov 3, 2015, 6:10:00 PM11/3/15
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Hi Felicia,
I don't have any leads for instructors in D.C. (wish I did!!) but I would be more than happy to be a practice buddy and try to get together with the couple of other players that I know of in the area.

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Felicia Dale

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Nov 4, 2015, 1:50:32 AM11/4/15
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Neat! Thanks so much, David. If it’s okay I’ll pass on your info to the person looking for help. 

Next time I’m out your way I’d love to get together with you and any other players, too. :) 

F.

David Gillett

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Nov 4, 2015, 10:32:41 AM11/4/15
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Go right ahead! I'll be happy to share what knowledge I do have. BTW, I live in Arlington but sadly I have no space for guests.

Felicia Dale

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Nov 4, 2015, 1:56:33 PM11/4/15
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Thanks so much, David. I’ve passed along your email. 

F.

Bennett Solberg

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Nov 8, 2015, 4:20:21 PM11/8/15
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I'd love to get in on this as well.

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