Acrolite w/ scratched bearing edge

[kolbe741]

I've got a 70's Acrolite snare purchased off an auction site that's in rough shape. The batter side bearing edge is scratched up pretty badly - as if someone drug it on concrete or another rough surface.

I know that rough edges effect wood shells - does the same hold true for metal shells? And if so, does anyone have advice on the best way to smooth it out?

Thanks!

[jonnistix]

First,Welcome, and yes, the rough edge would more than likely cut the head eventually. Since this is an aluminum shell, you would be able to sand and buff it smooth, using progressively finer grit. As far as buffing it smooth again, I would check a local metalworker, they may do the entire job for you.

[Jim]

Put us up a pic... I have an Acro project creeping along. I'd like to see what you are dealing with on this one.

Aluminum is so soft it should be an easy fix. I guess it kind of depends on gouge vs. scratch

[kolbe741]

Here are a few photos of the edge in question. There are actually a couple of dings on the edge (see one of them in photo #1 below). Wondering if I'll be able to work them out w/ sanding or if they'll need to be filled with something in order to smooth them out. Thanks for the previous advice. This site is a great resource.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3498/4067916529_12b518195d_o.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3511/4067916487_5d6ec8bf08_o.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3520/4068669608_bbd9045195_o.jpg

[Jaye]

That kinda sucks because if you take it to a metalworker or auto body shop it's gonna cost some $ - Now if there are only a few gouges and most of the problem is scratches l'd do what Jonni suggests and sand it down using paper for metal progressively finer to get out the scratches - then for the gouges - use JB Weld or some other brand of cold weld or metal putty as a filler & sand smooth and flush

[jonnistix]

That kinda sucks because if you take it to a metalworker or auto body shop it's gonna cost some $ - Now if there are only a few gouges and most of the problem is scratches l'd do what Jonni suggests and sand it down using paper for metal progressively finer to get out the scratches - then for the gouges - use JB Weld or some other brand of cold weld or metal putty as a filler & sand smooth and flush

Yep, and from what I can see, it looks like you could get by sanding it down, and following Jaye as well. It's not as bad as I originally envisioned. TAKE YOUR TIME. It's worth it, especially if you stole the drum in the first place. Acrolites are great drums.
Man, someone had to have been really drunk to get the gravel in that deep. I can see it now, after the gig to end all gigs, the drummer and the bass player stumbling over one another in the alley, trying to load the guitar players' crap while he's getting a....never mind....

[Jaye]

a drink :confused:Mind Blowi