Walter

I had a Bach Strad 37 start to show staining around the bell wire after only a few months...I was busy and could not be bothered to take it to the shop (50 miles away).....it continued to get worse so after 18 months I finally took it back....they had obviously seen the problem before and sent it straight back to Bach. There was absolutely no quibble and no charge to replate the horn...the problem was solved and the horn must have been adjusted because it played significantly better than before. I eventually sold it to a friend and the plating is still as good as new.

If the shop has closed you should make direct contact with Bach.....I would be amazed if they didn't help. One warning though.....my shop loaned me a horn to play while it was away.....these things can take quite alot of time!

Regards

Walter