In a message dated 12/30/99 1:12:03 AM Central Standard Time, bkidd@tilc.com writes: << > Dear list: > > The piano is a Cable-Nelson Ser.#316422 (1948-49) I have tuned the piano for > about 10 years. Many times they call me about keys that do not work. Mainly > in octaves 4 and 5 (F#-A-4: G-A#-5) The problem: The keys will work several > times, then the jack fails to return under the hammer butt. If you work at a > little it will go back under and then work for several more times >> What happens on one of the problem keys if you play it with the sustain pedal engaged and then let the key return very slowly? Will the jack always return like it should or will it only work when the key and action is given a little momentum to return to rest? I have found, especially on a lot of consoles, that the action parts are too light to positively return everything fully without some momentum helping it along. Just the friction between the key capstan and the wippen felt can be enough to cause problems. Since it seems to be a design flaw more than anything, you might consider adding some key weights. Dave Bunch
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