I often see , on eBay, and elsewhere, a melodion that has had the bass reed blocks removed. I grew up in So. California, and am familiar with what happens in that area. A melodion player in a Mexican, or Tex-Mex, band removes the bass mechanism for the simple reason that the bass notes are not needed, or in any way appreciated, by the other members of the group.
My question is about replacing the missing bass reed mechanism, since these damaged instruments are relatively cheaper than the unaltered instruments. And am I right in assuming that the only feasible way to restore one of these instruments is to use parts from another melodion in your closet? And that buying the needed parts from the factory or a reputable repairman would make the process too expensive ?
Thanks in advance for your answers
