Thanks Richard, The key bushings are not worn excessively. The balance hole is a definite possibility. I assume that the rep springs needed tightening (not a huge amount) often because in effect the piano was getting so much wear/play. These piano machines were really incredible, top notch players a couple placing in the top 4 at the Van Cliburn competition. Thanks again, I'll let you know what happens. Lance Lafargue, RPT Mandeville, LA New Orleans Chapter lafargue@iamerica.net -----Original Message----- From: owner-pianotech@ptg.org [mailto:owner-pianotech@ptg.org]On Behalf Of Richard Moody Sent: Monday, August 07, 2000 11:37 PM To: pianotech@ptg.org Subject: Re: Repetition Revisited >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
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