HAMMER FIT

[Doug Richards]

     Howdy to the List,

     I am new to the piano repair industry.  I recently decided to replace
     a set of hammers on a grand piano because of excessive wear.  Having
     never done this before, I am not sure about the fit of the hammer
     shank to the hole.  From previous postings and other sources, it
     sounds like the fit should be "snug".  Since I had not done this
     before I decided to have the Supply house drill the hammers.

     When I checked the hammer to shank fit, it felt too loose.  The hammer
     shanks in the knurled ends measured .220" and the hammers were a snug
     slip fit on a .235 cylinder.  This much clearance between parts seems
     to allow the hammer to rock excessively without glue, and the strike
     point would be difficult to control.  I assume the hide glue will take
     up some of the difference, but since the fit is so loose to start
     with, will the glue joint be compromised?

     Do I send the hammers back, or am I missing something?

     So before I go any further, I need a volunteer and would be happy to
     donate 2-3 cents for comments and/or instructions...

     Thanks,

     doug
     drichard@qntm.com