What to do?

[p.h.a.t.]

Hi, all... I recently acquired a 1920's/1930's Super Ludwig, natural finish,6 1/2 x 15.
That's right, 15" ! Supposedly a gift to this late drummer from Ray Mckinley...
Anyway, the whole "super" assembly was changed out for an easier to use (?) simple throw off/butt assembly. It is older, nickle plated, but I'm not sure what brand... I'll try and post pics later this evening...
My questions are: should I actively try to replace the throwoff with the correct part? I would suppose that this would increase the value? Does this drum have any value as is? What are the odds of finding the correct throwoff assembly?
Incidently, i completely disassembled and thoroughly and safely cleaned the drum according to the recommendations found here, and I must say, It looks great! It looks old, but not beat up, with that great patina fo an antique!
Any ideas about heads? I was thinking Earthtone...
Any of your thoughts would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks...

[p.h.a.t.]

After somemore research, the throw-off appears tp be a Pioneer... if that matters...

[Rich K.]

I would clean it up and leave it as is. Try some diffeernt heads and enjoy it. 15" snare drums have a much lower value than the 14" ones. THe extra holes also devalue the drum quite a bit. The cost of finding a "Super" set up (especially that center bar for a 15") would be costly...probably more than it would increase the value of the drum. I bet it would sound nice with a coated Remo ambassador on top, and an ambassador snare side. The nickel hardware will clean up nicely with Cape Cod polishing cloths.

[Mike Curotto]

Yep, that mechanism won't be easy (not impossible, but hard) to find....you can have the center rod made if you know a good machinist...

Mike Curotto

[p.h.a.t.]

I think I'll put it all back together the way it is and enjoy it while looking for the parts... you never know!