Counter bearing treatment

[Delwin D Fandrich]

----- Original Message -----
From: Jon Page <jonpage@mediaone.net>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: January 10, 2000 5:23 PM
Subject: Counter bearing treatment


> I recently restrung a Baldwin R and instead of recovering
> the tenor counter-bearing with felt, I replaced it with a half
> round bearing bent to the curve. Tuning is this area is much
> easier and there seems to be no adverse sympathetic
> vibrations. I am considering this replacement on another
> popular brand with a wide felt area in this location.
>
> Aside from "tradition" and/or cosmetics is there a real reason
> for this application?

No.  But, as you are finding out, there are several good reasons for making
changes along the lines you are investigating.  Tuning -- especially over
the long term -- will be improved.  Usually you will provide better string
termination at the agraffe due to the slightly increased string angles.  You
will be able to provide a better string angle relationship with the tuning
pin.  Etc.



> I think I read somewhere of the availability of hardened or rolled
> steel for this purpose. I just utilized a rod I had and fashioned a
> half-round suitable for the application.

This bar does not have to be hardened.  Indeed, it doesn't even have to be
steel.  We typically use half-round or half-oval brass of an appropriate
thickness.



> My experience has been that felt in this area creates a considerable
> amount of friction, whereas a steel counter-bearing creates less.

Well, I certainly would not count removing some 15 to 30 mm of felted
friction surface for the string to drag over as a disadvantage.

Del