John and List, I agree that seeing multitudes of _permanent_ markings from previous technicians is inconsiderate to the appearance of the instrument and therefore to the customer. I do a tremendous amount of player and reproducer restoration where, during disassembly, the parts (pneumatics, valves, etc.) must be kept in order. When the parts need to be numbered I find it best to use a soft pencil, write as small as possible and still be legible, and locate these markings where they will not be visible after reassembly. Seems the same consideration is due for any piano. Chalk for temporary markings seems ideal since it is so easily removed when finished. Unfortunately, we are limited in our ability to change the bad habits of technicians with little regard for professional appearance of the job. Maybe the subtle suggestion of the alternatives (combined with appropriate timing) will start to make a dent! Debbie Legg Dunedin, FL
This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC