It is important to get your hands dirty and try things out. Percussion gear is just nuts and bolts so don't be afraid to try and fix something yourself.

Update on Pedal:
Did this in the fall of 2021, as off fall of 2023 it's working like a charm. My wife has moved to another school, so that's the last update I'll have for it. But 2 years still going strong. I think it was a pretty good fix. Honestly, it was a definite hackjob but it still worked out. So don't be afraid to get your hands dirty.