Calfskin Head on Gibson Banjo-uke - Discussion Forums

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ARCHIVED TOPIC: Calfskin Head on Gibson Banjo-uke

Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/260592

ukulele_gardi - Posted - 04/11/2013: 19:44:09

Hello folks,

Please help me!

I'm having trouble installing a calfskin head on my Gibson UB2 banjo-uke. I tried 2 times and though it sounds good, the crown height is too low! The last time I put a Clifford Essex (unmounted) head and tried to keep the flesh hoop the highest possible. I put two pairs of hooks and left it for 3 days drying. Then I installed the others and tensioned the head on the third day. In order to get proper tension on the head I had to turn the nuts a lot and then the tension hoop was low AGAIN! Like the first time! What am I missing? I need to stretch the head when I put the flesh hoop in the start? The banjo sounds great, but I'm afraid the tailpiece will poke a hole in the head with time (since it is sitting ON the head) - the appearance don't seem right as well. Pics: s1206.photobucket.com/user/Fernando_Gardinali/library/UB2%20Problems

jbalch - Posted - 04/12/2013: 04:13:33

If you can get proper tension on the head it is OK that the hoop pulls low. The tailpiece might indeed damage the hide. You can put a piece of spare hide or felt underneath to help prevent it if you want.

To end up in the proper final position, you will need to set the tension hoop higher when the hide is wet. Each hide stretches differently, so there is a little guesswork involved. But initially, the tension hoop should stand above the top of the head by at least 1/4" to 3/8" That will usually result in a crown that sets the hoop slightly above the top of the head when complete.

Best wishes!

Edited by - jbalch on 04/12/2013 04:19:30