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Back to Basics: Power Discs & Rollers

Powerful Tools for Controlled Bell Repair

Ferree’s Power Discs and Rollers have become some of our most popular bell-repair tools for one simple reason: they work. When properly selected and positioned, these tools provide the controlled power needed to restore damaged bell contours on sousaphones, trumpets, French horns and saxophones.

The examples below demonstrate several Power Disc and roller combinations. Work slowly, maintain proper alignment and watch the instrument carefully throughout the repair.

Sousaphone Bell

Z60-27 Big Disc with Z60-28 Wide Roller

The Z60-27 Big Disc is shown working with the wider Z60-28 Roller on a sousaphone bell.

Stand directly in line with the center of the bell, much like positioning yourself to drive a bus. Support the tool from below with your fingers and maintain a centered working position throughout the repair.

Trumpet Bell

Z60-25 Small Disc with Z60-29 Tapered Roller

The Z60-25 Small Disc is paired with the Z60-29 Tapered Roller for work on a trumpet bell.

The tapered shape of the Z60-29 creates a helpful safety zone inside the bell. Stand directly in front of and centered with the bell when using Power Discs. This positioning makes alignment easier to maintain than working from the side, as is common with the shoe method.

French Horn Bell

Z60-26 Medium Disc with Z60-28 Wide Roller

The Z60-26 Medium Disc is shown with the Z60-28 Wide Roller on a French horn.

The additional width of the Z60-28 creates a larger safety zone and provides added support while working the bell. Keep the disc and roller properly aligned and monitor the metal closely as the contour changes.

Saxophone Bell

Z60-24 Sax Disc with Z60-30 Convex Roller

The Z60-24 Sax Disc is paired with the Z60-30 Convex Roller for saxophone bell repair.

Move slowly and carefully. Saxophone bells have smaller radii, and the instrument’s uneven weight can make it more difficult to balance and control. These tools provide considerable power, so frequent inspection is important.

With controlled movement and close observation, the original bell contour can be restored. After repeated use, three distinct contact or “ghost” areas may develop on the convex roller, corresponding to alto, tenor and baritone saxophone applications

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Important Operating Reminder

Always select the disc and roller combination appropriate for the instrument and repair. Stand in the recommended position, keep the tools centered and apply pressure gradually. Specialized bell repair should be performed only with the proper knowledge, training and equipment.

Ferree’s Tools: Because They Work!