Rob Keddell wrote: >>5) Knuckles too hard. I've experimented with replacing an existing doeskin knuckle with a Renner doeskin knuckle (slightly smaller, BTW). The difference was a considerable reduction in noise. Now, replacing all the knuckles would be unfeasable (unless the client wants to spend the $$$ "... but I just bought it *new*, why is it having these problems?") I've had some success lightly scuffing the knuckle surface with a brass wire brush. Nap direction remains unchanged. Fluffier knuckle = less noise.<< Another good solution for noisy knuckles in new pianos is to stretch the knuckle skin slightly to loosen it and thereby soften it. Put a center pin in a handle, or use the smallest jeweler's scredriver or an old bass string or something. Just insert the tool between the skin and the knuckle core, then slide it around the circumference of the core, separating the skin from the core. If the skin is stretched very tight, try wiggling the tool at an angle, in other words away from perpendicular to the knuckle wood core, until there is _slight_ give to the skin. There should be no gapping between the skin and the core with the knuckle at rest. If you pinch the knuckle firmly with your fingers front to back, you should be able to create a slight gap when the knuckle is being pinched. Young Chang had a problem with knuckle production a few years back, when a new process was tried that used a lot of heat and pressure. The skin became bonded to the core, and it was stretched very tight. The problem's been solved since. Your idea of brushing the skin with a suede brush is good, too. Don_Mannino@yca.ccmail.compuserve.com
This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC