loose capstans

[Richard Moody]

Using "pin-tite" on loose capstans should be worth pursuing.
There are some considerations.  If by "pin-tite" you mean
Lundsfords I would probably try Garfields Pin Block Restorer
first.  All the others are not in the same class as
Garfields and Lundsfords.   Garfields because the dark
Lundsford might stain the wood.
    Also since Garfields works, or so it claims, by making
the wood swell by drawing moisture from the air, that makes
sense in the case of loose capstains.

    Have I used it?   I am sure I have but can't remember.
I do remember two or three times, "if the capstains do not
hold I will try tuning pin tightner on them".   Or once or
twice, "I happen to have some TPT with me, I will try it on
these loose capstans"    It can't hurt to try as you will
know in 5 to 10 days.  If "adverse effects" is a concern try
only two or 3 key.    I don't see why you couldn't shim or
"size" with epoxy if Garfields doesn't work.

    I am more surprised that no one has responded about
using it.   I asked a senoir technician once what he thought
of the idea and he responded, "out of the mouths of babes",
which I took to mean that he hadn't heard of it but it might
not be a bad idea.  But if it hasn't been tried no one knows
if it might be a "disaster" but I doubt that.  So why hasn't
it been tried?  Seems intuitive......

    I can find a few keys on some junked pianos that have
been outside for a few years.   Would be glad to experiment
on them if interested.      ---ric