First aid for your drums

First aid for your drums

Knowing what to look for and how to avoid on-stage disasters that can stop the show can go a long way. Even better is to spot the things that wear out or loosen on a drum set before you hit the stage.

When it comes to the nuts and bolts of a drum set and all the hardware that holds it in place, there is no substitute for good maintenance. A poorly maintained kit will provide you many bad memories of scrambling to fix something either just before, or during an important performance you are playing in. Face it – any performance is important and it is good practice to not screw ANYTHING up, if possible. When on stage you want everything to go smoothly so the audience remembers the music, the performance - not the time the drummer’s cowbell fell onto his snare mic during that delicate intro!


• Cymbal sleeves can wear through, leading to keyholes.

• Pedal springs and hooks can weaken and wear (thinning of metal)

• Cymbals crack (edge or radial - can be cut or drilled to save)

• Drum heads separating or damaged (can heat out dents in a pinch)

• Wing nuts under high stress from tightened a lot, can strip.

• Loose nuts and bolts always tighten vital parts before sound check. When changing heads check lugs while you can see the inside of the drum.

• Loose pedal mechanisms. Check regularly as pedals go through a lot of movement=potential to loosen)

• Drum throne - ensure that post is not going to poke through!

• Pedals are clean and lubed (no squeaks)


Knowing what to pack in your tool kit is also important so you can address any situation.


• Multi-bit Screw driver

• Multi tool w/pliers

• Appropriately sized wrenches and keys.

• Baling wire

• Gaff tape (strong as you can find)

• Extra screws/bolts

• Box cutter/scissors



Plan a regular maintenance schedule to clean and inspect these vital parts that can potentially cause problems and pack the right tool kit to cover anything. Now, you are ready to just relax and play some music knowing all is well with your gear.

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