M&H model 'A' ??

[JIMRPT@aol.com]

List;
   I have just looked at a Mason & Hamlin 5'8", serial #27094, that has had a
new board (old bridges) installed.  The board was installed of low quality
spruce, read very few rings per inch, and the grain runs paralell with the
belly board, or front rail. The ribs are new sugar pine and are stubbed out
aprox 1" from rim. The ribs run at aprox 45 degrees to the board grain. The
tone at board center is acceptable and dies out as you near each end of the
scale. The sustain time for all notes is more than adequate and in some areas
superb. There is some crown in the board, and down bearing on all notes.
   The pinblock was replaced and is set tight against plate flange. It is not
mortised, glued or doweled to the stretcher or case cornice.
The pin block, in no area, is closer than 1/2 inch to the cornice.

Questions;1. Any thoughts as to the long term viability of this sounding
board?
2.Any problems inherent as to tuning stability? a. due to pin block? b. due
to board?

No, the customer cannot get her money back from the "technician".

Would appreciate your thoughts.
Jim Bryant (FL)