How to Remove Stuck Pins From a Flute

The flute contains small pins that hold the keys in place. On occasion, it is necessary to remove these pins if they become bent or damaged. Since the pins are so small, sometimes they will stick and become difficult to remove. In most cases, a pin can simply be pulled with a small pair of needle-nose pliers and removed from the instrument. If the flute pins are stuck profoundly, then you will need to oil the pins to make it possible for easy removal.

Step 1

Hold the flute out in front of you and locate the pin you would like to remove. Attempt to straighten the pin if it is bent by using the tips of the needle-nose pliers and clamping down on the pin.

Step 2

Apply a few drops of synthetic oil to the part of the pin that connects with the braces. Don't worry about using too much oil, but avoid getting the key pads wet.

Step 3

Place the tip of the needle-nose pliers on the left side of the pin, near the brace that holds the pin in place on the left. In a side-to-side motion, attempt to wiggle the pin out of the brace and free it from the flute.

Step 4

Apply a small amount of heat to the pin using a match if oiling doesn't work and you don't mind ruining the pin. The heat will help to loosen the pin from the flute. Alternatively, you can use hot water to avoid damaging the pin, but be very careful to avoid getting the flute key pads wet.

Tips

Another method that works with pins that aren't severely stuck is to punch the pin out of the brace. To do this, simply take a thin rod that will fit inside the pinhole and push the pin out. This technique is useful when the pin is not bent or damaged in any way.

Warnings

If the pins are extremely stuck, take your flute to a professional music repair shop or a music store with repair services. This may save you money in the long run by helping you avoid potential damage to your flute.