11
Replacing the Head
Pedal
3
Place the new head with the hoop on the kettle.
When using a Yamaha timpani head, make sure
its Yamaha logo is on the side opposite the pedal.
The hoop must be re-mounted in the same posi-
tion as marked with cellophane tape in step
2
. In
the proper order, tighten the tuning bolts alter-
nately by hand until the head is tensioned slightly.
At this time, make sure that the head and hoop
are centered on the kettle.
Tighten each tuning bolt an additional 1/4 of
a turn using the timpani key. Repeat at least 4
times.
4
Adjust the timpani as described on page 6
starting with step
2
.
For precise tuning, refer to the section
on page 8.
Cellophane tape
Hoop
Interval for head replacement
When the head is slightly tensioned and its
surface looks wavy or shows dents, it is time
to replace the head with a new one.
The maximum head life normally is approxi-
mately 2 years and depends on the frequency
and duration of use. However, the head
should always be replaced before the sound
quality deteriorates dramatically. If a head is
left on and used more than two years, the fol-
lowing problems may occur:
• It may become impossible to tune the
head to the proper pitch range.
• It may become impossible to balance the
pedal.
• The main unit mechanisms themselves
may become damaged.
We recommend replacing the head every year.
1
Loosen tuning bolts alternately and remove the
bolts.
Caution
Do not touch the pedal when loosening the
tuning bolts (loosening the head). Also, never
place your fingers or foot into space under the
pedal, around its base, or its moving parts.
Changes in spring tension can cause the ped-
al to suddenly move, posing a great danger.
We recommend that you mark the pedal side
of the hoop with a piece of tape, etc. so that the
hoop can be reattached to the same position.
2
Remove the hoop and head together. Be careful
not to lose any of the tuning bolts and prevent
dust from adhering to them. Also, avoid touching
the tuning bolt threads, as they are greased.
* Be careful not to make any scratches in
the edge tape attached to the kettle’s edge.
