squeeky snare tension rods.

[my sacred music]

i want my heads on my snare really tight. like a marching snare almost. but my tension rods start to let out a horrible ear splitting squeel when i tune them further.
should i look for new rods and oil them up alil? if i oil them wouldn't that make them detune easyer?

the drum isn't the greatest eathir its gretsch blackhawk sx. could that be part of the problem?
would a better drum be able to get tighter and a louder crack and more of a marching band sound?
i was thinking maybe a custom see through drum (cant remeber the name for see through drums)



thanks

[GRUNTERSDAD]

I took the tension rods out put some Chap-Stick on them and put them back in. Its not runny, it stays put, and mine have not detuned at all. Compact, easy to use, cheap and fits in your pocket or stick bag. And if you play where its real sunny you can buy the type with sun block in it. Just kidding.

[Steady Freddy]

Some rods use metal washers that contact the rim. Some use nylon/plastic.

If you put a drop of light oil in between the metal washers and the top of the rod (where the drum key goes) it will reduce a lot of friction and make the rods super smooth to turn.

I also like to apply a drop of light oil to the threaded end of the rod. I'll lay the rods out on a paper towel, apply the oil and let the excess drain off. That leaves a very fine film of oil on the rods so you don't end up with a greasy mess.

I hope that helps.

[ULTIMATEDRUMMER]

I belive the in both those meathods (below) work great.
Some people say the Vasaline/ chap-stick is not good for the lugs or something
but IDK y???

[Salicete]

Squealing rods at high tension are a sure sign of over-tightening, and to continue to tighten further may lead to lug, shell, rod and or hoop damage.

Much like pain is your body telling you something is wrong, that squeal is a plea for help.

Back off the tension a bit.

If you really want that marching snare sound, you could always add one to your kit.