Hi to all in the forum,

We recently received a great addition to use for our program. It’s a Ludwig Challenger 14” marching snare. (See photo) Blue /olive pointed badge unit with a serial # of 2126248.

The drum is in fairly good condition but will need some new heads, snare work, and some cleaning and tuning.

I’m hoping some of the great people on this forum may be able to help with some questions.

The drum has a Ludwig P87 throw off with gut snares.

Can anyone offer some advice the best way to remove the gut strainer assembly from the throw off in order to change the bottom head? Also the way to replace individual snare wires on the snare assembly. I’ve done the standard Ludwig units many times but this is my first encounter with the P87. I guess I’m a little nervous about messing it up. I tried to do some research on the web on the adjustment of the P87 without much luck.

I’m also looking for 2 of the individual gut snares hopefully with the eyelet and snare adjustment screw and also 2 of the friction springs. If anyone has these available please PM me.

I’m leaning towards putting a Ludwig “Silver Dot” for the batter with a Evans MS-3 clear head on the snare side. Good choice? Any other reconditions? Is the Remo Ambassador marching snare side head another good option?

Any other tips on tuning the heads, adjusting the snares for the best sensitivity, or other items about this drum would be most welcome.

Thanks to all in advance and Happy Thanksgiving!

Dad Roadie