Meinl Congas - Replacing rims, lugs, and brackets

[ElRey]

I'm interested replacing the hardware on my "vintage" Meinl congas (conga/tumba). The drums are at least 15 years old with old hardware technology, and I would like to upgrade to the smooth rims. A few rookie questions if I may:

1. Is it required to stay with the Meinl line when upgrading, if
not, any other vendor recommendations?
2. Will new line hardware match up with the old hardware
bracket holes.
3. Are there any recommended company's on the internet to
purchase the hardware?

Thanks in advance!

[ElRey]

I sent the question to the "Meinl" company, here's their response:

Dear Elrey,

Thank you for your mail.

It's not possible to change the hardware without drilling new holes. Buying new congas would cost almost the same...

Kind regards,

Mario Schmitt

[Congadelica]

Have you not considered having the hardware re -finished -chromed or anodised and laquered. or even powder coating . providing the metal is not too coroded Im sure this is possible .

CD