Broken agraffe - caution

[Carl Root]

I've replaced perhaps a half-dozen agraffes.  All but one were straight
forward, ie no drilling was required.  Carve a slot into the top of the
post left in the plate with a sharp screwdriver blade. Take your time
and carve a deep slot that will fit the screwdriver you'll be using to
turn it out.  You can use a two-pronged tool made by modifying a
screwdriver, but beware drilling or punching the stud in any way that
could have a wedging effect and make it tighter.

If you've ever seen damaged threads caused by a previous technician's
errant drill bit, you might be less enthusiastic about drill bits and
EZ-outs.  I was called out on a S&S 'M' where the previous tooner had
attempted to use epoxy to repair the damaged threads!  No luck.  The
technique that Jim Coleman describes is one you should be prepared for
even though you will probably never have to use it.  The plate insert
from Steinway is nothing more than a short 3/8" bolt drilled and tapped
to accept the new agraffe.  You will have to drill and tap the plate to
accept the insert - dead perfect 90 degrees, so bring a couple of small
machinist squares.  A magnet covered with a thin cloth picks up the
filings.  Feed the bolt up from the bottom, twist in the agraffe, adjust
for height, and cut off the bottom of the bolt with a hack saw.   

Carl Root, RPT