LP Classic congas - New 11.5 inch head?????

[rhythmdaddy]

I have a set of LP Classic congas. I bought them about 20 years ago. I replaced the larger one's head years ago. It is larger than 12", but I'm not sure of the size. The smaller one needs a new head. I have contacted my online music store and they don't have the size. LP says there is no such size. I ordered each of the sizes available on the store's website - 11" and 11.75", and neither fits. The size is right in the middle of those two. The larger one is too big, the smaller one is too small. So, I assume the head is 11.5" diameter.

I haven't been able to locate a head in this size. Can anyone steer me in the right direction?

Thank you so much for your help. Oh, and a BIG HELLO from the new guy!

[salcero1]

Welcome to the Forum R.D.,
Have you considered mounting or rather skinning a new head to your smaller conga by yourself or with a friend's assistance? It's not that hard, you just need to obtain the flesh hoop from the old head by giving it a soak with plain water in your bathtub until it is pliable enough to remove. With some pliers and perhaps a friend's hand to assist you, a fresh new skin can be mounted. Skins can be obtained from various manufacturers. L&H Percussion is a good place to start. Contact Michael Barsky at (908) 419-7364. He is very good at selecting the right type of skin for your drum and will explain in detail the correct thickness of the skin you will need along with the mounting and drying procedures for your new congahead. Good Luck in your shopping. Peace,

Jorge.

[Derbeno]

To follow up to what Salecero suggested there are many detailed step by step instruction on this forum (with picture) on how to mount your own skin.

Search and ye shall find!

[rhythmdaddy]

Thanks! I am not familiar, but I will research. I appreciate your time and expertise.

[CongaTick]

Welcome Rhythmdaddy,

Salcero and Derbeno are right. Go for it. We've got great instructions within our threads. Do a little search and you'll see. No better way to bond with your drum.

[Derbeno]

Here is a thread with pics on using strings to aid with the replacement.

viewtopic.php?f=14&t=3227&hilit=strings

Otherwise search on 'mounting' 'pliers' changing heads' etc

there is also a thread on skin supplier list