Why Strings Break

[Jim Coleman, Sr.]

Sometimes strings break while turning the pin backwards. This is most
often on large core Bass strings. I'm wondering how far back the pin
was turned.

Jim Coleman, Sr.

On Tue, 30 Mar 1999, JPIESIK wrote:

> Shifting gears a bit on the string replacement thread:
> 
> I've heard that strings should never break during a tuning *if* you 
> are using the proper technique. The proper technique, per one opinion, 
> is to *always* lower tension before turning a pin.
> 
> I thought that strings break during a tuning for a variety of reasons, 
> most that we cannot control. Can we *completely* avoid string breakage 
> during a tuning by using a particular tuning technique as I was told?
> 
> I tell folks that the poor quality steel wire, the piano design, the 
> condition of the piano, how hard the piano is played, and over-tension 
> could all lead to string breakage. And if a string breaks, they pay to 
> replace it. Is this a correct analysis?
> 
> Regards,
> 
> John Piesik, RPT
> Oceanside, CA
>