felt separating from hammer core

[jpiesik@arinc.com]

    Ted,

    I have had similar experience with a cheesy Winter spinet. The previous
    technician had tied up several hammers where the felt had separated from
    the moulding (or core, as you call it). Some were still holding and some
    had separated again. In order to correct the ones that wouldn't stay put
    I just replaced the individual hammers with close matches (I have
    several spare hammers and styles at the shop to choose from).  Maybe you
    can find access to some hammers that would match closely to the ones you
    need to replace. Even though they won't look the same as the others it
    will work if they are of similar size and shape and with a little
    regulation to those notes.  Of course, if the felts are separating from
    the mouldings, depending upon what quality of piano you're dealing with,
    the best cure is to replace the hammer set.  If the piano isn't worth a
    new set of hammers try just replacing the individual hammers.

    John Piesik
    San Diego Chapter PTG
    JPIESIK@ARINC.COM

I am going to service a piano where the hammer felts have come loose from
the core on one side.  I tried contact cement and superglue with no
success.  My method is to apply the glue then tie the hammer tightly with
waxed string. I leave the string there so the glue dries thoroughly until
the next appointment.
At the next appointment I remove the string and the hammer felt pops back
up.  I think the superglue wicks up into the felt and contact cement just
doesn't have the strength.  Any suggestions would be most welcome.
    ted simmons
    independent piano technician