Amen!

John

Hello, members

I was just reading this post and now you've got me thinking that I might have something under a paint job of a set that I have. About 15 years ago found an old Ludwig set on the side of the road for sale cheap ( actually the brand new Zildjian HHats caught my Eye first) basically bought them for the HH and the drums were a bonus. But anyways the set was painted over and I have just let them sit that way not even thinking there could be something under that paint. So I guess my question is: How did you go about finding out what might be under there? Is there a way I could check? Any tricks of the trade? Actually looks like some of the paint is loose and I see black under there. Looked up some finishes here (the set is a 1965) and do not see a solid black color. Did they even have solid colors available then?

Pull some of the heads. The edges of the wrap should be worn where the head rubs when it goes on. There may be some exposed wrap in those high wear areas.

Best way is to remove the paint from a small patch of the shell, maybe the bottom part of the bass drum. Use Motzenbockers Lift-Off 4, Grafitti Remover. It's gentle, will remove the paint, but it won't harm the finish/wrap.

Good luck! Hope you find something interesting under there. Yes, Ludwig sold solid black drums. Either painted (Black Lacquer) or wrapped (Black Cortex.)

John

Thanks John,

I'll let you know how I make out.

Wayne

You can also try taking off a piece of the hardware like a tom mount or spur, or even a lug. Sometimes the paint will come off with it.

Even if it doesn't, it gives you an unseen "test spot" to try whatever removal tools you attempt.

Let us know what you find under that paint. I've bought painted drums before and all there was under there was wood. Fingers crossed for you!

I'm working on something but still a few days out. Hoping to have pics and results before Thanksgiving.

Well finally made it back. I dug out the drums with the paint on them and come to the conclusion that there is no wrap on the drums. They seam to have a black base but not sure if whom ever did it took the drums down to the bare finish because I see black paint on the hardware like they painted over the shell. here are some pictures that show what i am talking about. if anything, it could of been black lacquer under there but some areas seem to be pealing right down to bare finish. maybe the experts here can analyze this and let me know what they think. also while inspecting I noticed that there is 1 bass drum lug and claw that is a WFL, I would like to replace that with a matching nickel one if anyone might have one for grabs or trade. but for now just going to leave the paint the way it is now. anyone know how I might be able to clean up the badge?