Stiff Levers

No matter how well engineered or installed all the lever types with which we are familiar can stiffen over time. This is because most types of metals are prone to some degree of oxidation and because metal joints require some agent acting to reduce friction. Particularly susceptible will be lever harps which reside near oceans, as salt air is especially corrosive.

The best solution for stiff levers is, fortunately, the easiest. Use sewing machine oil or a spray can of WD-40 oil with the red straw attached. (For the WD-40, Install the end of the straw in the hole from which the oil sprays.) Test spraying to get a feel for spraying just a tiny, tiny amount. Once you can control the spray, place the open end of the straw or nozzle against the stiff lever and spray oil into any place on the lever where there is a joint. Use a tissue or a rag to catch drips or overspray. You do not have to worry about the oil ruining the finish on your harp, just wipe it up. After only a very small amount of oil is applied, flip the lever up and down until oil works into the joint and the lever is moving freely. Repeat oiling as necessary. Oiling stiff levers is easy and the potential for doing something which would damage your harp is nil.

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