ok i have 2 vintage clarinets, both of which need a little work, but im wondering which one will be worth the time and money to fix up.

I have a yama custom i think its (YCL-81)
and a Buffet R13
both of which are at least 15 years old.

The Yamaha is really in good shape compared to the buffet, a few new pads and cork and it will be fine, but then again buffet is a little more trusted in their clarinets and probably keep their value a little longer.
But the buffet has very badly chipped tenons, needs new corks, pads, and needs key modification since a few keys are stuck.

Which should I try to save?
Thank you for your input :D

Those are both good quality instruments. I would recommend taking them in to a professional repair person and get an expert opinion.

Well, I wouldn't exactly call clarinets that are 15 years old "vintage" quite yet, but on to the matter at hand.

Both instruments are quality. I would go with the buffet even though it needs more work, mainly due to reputation. Yamaha has gotten much better over the years, but Buffet has had a constistant line of quality. To be honest, you should fix them both up, try em out and pick after that. Which ever one you don't like you could always sell later.

I do understand your point, but I am not sure if i could afford the couple hundred it would cost to fix them both. As of now anyways.

Also, is it bad the leave the clarinet out of its case for extended periods?

I do not have a case for the buffet.

it is bad to leave them out as, they are knocked over they can be damaged really easily, my suggestion would be to get the buffet fixed up as it sounds as thought the Yamaha is still playable, but then get a case for the buffet also (you can get one that will protect it for about $30), and when you get the chance you can take the Yamaha in ad get it serviced as it may not need as much work.

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The buffet keys are probably ceased and need oiling but take it in the a repair place and they will do hat need doing as it might not need exactly what you say it does, if you take it in and tell the tech to do what needs doing then they will sort it.

But do get an estimate of cost before they do it or you might get a nasty shock! I say 'estimate' - no sensible tech will give a firm quote for this scenario.

With seized keys you never know how long it will take to free them - if the rods are really rusted it could take a lot of persuasion but if it's just a bit of old, dry oil there should be not problem. Whatever the keys need to come off to sort the problem.