Replacing valve felts, washers and springs
JP -
Springs -I had original springs in my 27 yr. old Besson when I sold it.
Real Felts - 1 year if you play constantly. More if you play infrequently. Felts can be washed in hot water and detergent, dried, and then will fluff up for reuse.
Synthetic Felts - Like Besson or York - last longer.
Cork Washers - 1-2 years. Replace when you replace felts or when the spit valve corks start to rot.
Plastic washers and valve guides - Generally last a real long time. Willson plastic valve guides seem to wear quicker than most.
Doug
Adams E3 0.60 Sterling bell - Prototype top sprung valves
Concord Band
Winchendon Winds
Townsend Military Band