Set Up Grand

[JIMRPT@AOL.COM]

In a message dated 8/12/2000 10:32:03 AM, Ron L. writes:

<< "List,        
         Has anyone designed a system for taking a Grand off a skid board
to the horizontal position by oneself?" >>

 Ron;
  I have not seen a "piano horse" although the idea is intriguing. I 
routinely set up grands by myself, though I prefer to use two people to do it.
I use an electric hoist with automatic brake.
 My method:
 1. Place grand and board underneath hoist.
 2. Fasten hoist hook to strap on tail end of board/piano .
 3. Standing at the front of the piano, NOT to the side, balance the thingee 
as the hoist tilts the piano allowing the dolly to be removed.
 4. Remove the dolly and lower the end of the board/piano to the floor.
 5. Install treble and back legs.
 6. Remove straps holding the piano to the board and position the piano to 
set up as if you were going to do it manually. (need I say be careful with 
the lid?;)
 7. Pad the treble leg and side of the case with a moving pad(s) and put a 
moving strap around the inside of the treble leg. The strap needs to be 
looped through the locking buckle at this time. (belly brace may be used in 
place of leg)
 8. Place the  locked moving strap in the hoist hook leaving just a little 
slack.
 9. From the 'lid' side push/tilt the piano so that the weight is held by the 
hoist. 
10. Lower the treble and back legs to the floor.
11. On grands with belly braces.........slide a moving strap between the 
piano and board, loop it around a belly brace so as prevent it from sliding 
when tension is placed on it. Lock the strap with the buckle. On grands 
without belly braces you can use the treble leg for the strap.
12. Pad the bass side, between the board and case, with a moving pad.
13. Standing in front of the piano put tension on the hoist and raise the 
piano until it is slightly over level...place horse/stand/mule , whatever 
y'all call it, under the keybed and lower piano so that most of the weight is 
now on the horse/etc....
14. Attach bass leg, raise piano, remove horse/etc.

 It really is quite easy, takes less time to do then to describe :-), but I 
still would rather do the job with two peoples..........
Hope this helps somewhat.
Jim Bryant (FL)