Accordion Tuning and Repairing Estimates

NOTE: Rates on this page are just suggestions only, and might be considered negotiable. I would like to help you get your accordion working, whatever it takes.

But you will have to spend something, as I can't single-handedly keep the Earth in orbit around the Solar System.

As a matter of fact, I might have to ask to charge even more, or on a whim, less.

Anyhow what I say it is, will be it.

Please email accordiondoc@mindspring.com any questions you have about your repair need. I answer all questions unless I don't know what to say.

Accordion Repair Estimates and Minimum Standard Charge.
(Applies to shipped accordions only)

The flat rate is $200 for up to two hours including the estimate, and flat rate return shipping of $50. Note: For very small accordions, like 12 to 32 bass or also "button boxes" the return shipping is included in the $200. If the accordion needs a full restoration like major reed work such as cleaning all the reeds, new wax poured, etc., the $200 is deducted from the complete restoration cost based on the accordion size, like number of reeds and condition. (A full restoration sometimes takes 20 hours or more of work.) If you just need part of the accordion repaired, and you know how to dismantle it, pulling any bellows frame pins straight out to avoid bending them, just send the part that needs to be fixed, leaving any reed blocks inside, unless reed blocks only are being sent by themselves. For small packages. less than a large whole accordion, minimum $200 still applies, but the $50 return shipping and handling fee is waived. If it will cost more than the standard minimum described here, I will notify you before proceeding further.

Bass strap installation.

The flat rate $125 includes any listed bass strap on my website, and new bass strap hardware when needed, and return shipping. You may be able to detach the bass side of the accordion by pulling the bellows pins straight out, to avoid bending them, and just send the left side,

Bass mechanical repairs

If repairs to the bass mechanism are needed, please leave the reeds attached, as having the reeds attached makes it easy to test.

When return shipping is "free".

The $50 return shipping charge is waived for small packages when you are not sending a large whole accordion. Like the bass or treble section by itslef or a small accordion without its case. Anyway, I won't "nickel and dime" you.

Call 301-649-1266 or email accordiondoc@mindspring.com when you ship it to me.

When sending any accordion or parts for repair and/or estimate, please include the payment in the shipment. Please be sure to purchase Delivery Confirmation if using the U.S. Postal Service. Pack it well, in light of the following instructions and suggestions.
Shipping instructions.

Wrap the accordion in bubble wrap. Clear tape on the bubble wrap makes it hard to cut and recycle, so if possible use masking tape. Do not send the case, if the accordion is being sent in for repair or estimate. Ship it inside a strong cardboard box.
The best position for the accordion inside the shipping container is...
upright in playing position, with the accordion diagonal in the shipping container. If the accordion were horizontal with the keyboard up, the bass mechanism is only supported by the valve springs, and when a heavy box is thrown, the g-forces pull the bass buttons down and collapse the mechanism, a condition which takes me 10 minutes to over 2 hours to rectify, depending on whther any parts got broken. One very important other thing is to keep the accordion from knocking around. It should not be free to move but also not squeezed under pressure by the padding in the case, if the case is being sent. Label the box on all sides "FRAGILE DO NOT DROP" Please call or E-mail me before sending it.
Send to:
Gaines I. Milligan 10803 Keller Street
Silver Spring MD 20902

Send me Email!
If you have questions about accordion repair or accordion tuning:
Email me at accordiondoc@mindspring.com.
Phone me at (301)649-1266

Accordion players around the nation rely on:
Ike's Boxpital for Sick Accordions(tm)
to keep their accordions in top shape

CALL TODAY!!! or (better yet) E-mail me.
accordiondoc@mindspring.com
(301)649-1266