Repetition Revisited

[Richard Moody]

>As the week wore on and the rep springs were repeatedly tightened and
> it was pounded on for 14 hours each day, I noticed a problem I've seen
> before.
>
> This piano has Steinway hammers on it, but not factory original hanging.
> 1985...   After the key is depressed and only partially raised (1/8 inch?)
> for the next blow, upon the next key depression the hammer gets wedged
> against the backcheck and blocks.  It doesn't happen every time.  In other
> words the hammer has let off and while the key is still almost completely
> depressed the hammer tail is not against the upper part of the backcheck
> like normal, but much lower and is trapped making the key feel almost like
> the hammer is blocked against the string.
> Repetition springs are tight with plenty of bounce....
>Lance Lafargue, RPT


Are the key bushings  worn causing slight sideways angle of the back check
to change with every type of keystroke?  Test for this by depressing the key
and wiggling it back in forth. If the BC moves more than you think it should
that is one problem.  Also there may be enlarged center-rail holes causing
the key to pull back and forth, "pulley"?  and that will really  mess up the
checking even if ever so slight.   Check with the experts on how the
"accelerated action" can wear there.  So you check a little lower, let off a
little lower, drop a little lower.   Hmmm you said your rep springs were
tight, I don't suppose they can be too "tight" besides I think that might
alleviate your problem rather than add to it, if my guesses are right.  I
like bounce, probably not "plenty" but a little more than just enough. ; )
However I don't know why they should have to be repeatedly tightened.  You
mentioned 14 hours a day.  That gives impetus to the suggestion that
performance pianos should have a clock in them.  After so many playing hours
they should be checked for certain things.  Like your car after
50,000--100,000--150,000 miles.    ---ric