TromboneChat

Just like countless school band kids back in the 60s and 70s, l have lost the little screw that says OIL which goes on the valve of my Olds Opera.
Does anyone have this part lying around? If so, I'd be willing to buy a baggie of two or three in case I lose another one.
This part is interchangeable across Olds trombone models, doesn't have to be off another Opera.

FYI: Fullerton Olds French horn rotors use the same size screw.

Most Olds rotors have a slotted screw rather than a thumbscrew; either one will fit.

I remember their French horns with the clanky mechanical rotors. So that does help my odds.
My trb had a thumb screw, but I'll be happy with anything to plug the hole.

Olds had a great idea to label the thumb screw "OIL." Very helpful as a reminder of where to apply lubrication to the valve's back bearing. Too bad they replaced these with simple slotted-head screws (which require a tool!).

True. Stuff like that and the odd sized mouthpiece receiver did not help sales, long term.
But I continue to prefer the trigger hand supporting the bell brace, l wish everybody still did that.
Conn 88H was the first to move the trigger forward, compromising left hand support and balance forever after. Then of course everyone had to copy the bestseller.

Macbone1 wrote: Fri Mar 20, 2026 11:36 am ...the odd sized [Olds] mouthpiece receiver did not help sales, long term.
But I continue to prefer the trigger hand supporting the bell brace, l wish everybody still did that.
Conn 88H was the first to move the trigger forward, compromising left hand support and balance forever after. Then of course everyone had to copy the bestseller.

This conversation has been fun, but still no valve screws being offered....help?

Macbone1 wrote: Sat Mar 21, 2026 10:54 am This conversation has been fun, but still no valve screws being offered....help?

Unfortunately, I do not have any I can spare.

Texas Horn Trader is selling some on eBay for US$4.99 each.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/146710589242

Thanks!! Great find!