Health Care for Horns:  Oiling Your Woodwind’s Keys  

Want your woodwind instrument to last?  Oil the keys!  It may not seem like much, but frequent oiling can make a big difference in the long run. 

Two Great Reasons to Oil Your Keys 

Un-oiled keys are subject to excessive wear and tear and loosen over time.  When keys move in directions other than they are designed to move, pads will no longer seat reliably, and the instrument will not perform up to its full potential.  This can lead to pricey repairs. Rebuilding worn-out key work is extremely time-consuming, and therefore very expensive. 

Another big reason to oil woodwind keys is to prevent rust.  This is especially important during marching band season, when your instrument runs the risk of getting wet in a rainstorm.  The screws inside the keys are typically steel, and will rust when wet.  However oil and water don't mix, so if your keys are oily, water can’t penetrate into the space between the key and the screw.  So oil keys generously during the marching band season. And if the weather looks threatening, oil the instrument immediately before a practice or performance just to be sure. 

Oiling How-Tos 

• What to use:   Most commercial key oils are virtually worthless.  Many professional repairmen use automatic transmission fluid.  A full quart will cost you less than a bottle of key oil from a music store, and will be a lifetime supply. 
• How to oil your keys:  The best way to apply the oil is with a pinpoint oiler.  These look like a small bottle with a needle-like spout.  Ask your instrument technician where to get one.  If you don't have an oiler, you can use a tooth pick.  A small drop of oil (no more, or you’ll make a mess!) should be placed at each point were a key meets a post.  Capillary action will draw it into the space where it belongs.   
• When to oil:  Unless it's marching season you need only oil your keys twice a year if you are using automatic transmission fluid.  Lighter key oils will require much more frequent oiling.  If you must use them, shoot for once every two weeks. 

And that’s really all there is to it!  If you’re not yet in the habit of oiling your woodwind’s keys, make the effort to start doing it.  It only takes a couple minutes a few times a year, but it can add years to your instrument’s life.  Now that’s a good investment!