Tuning Pin Tightener

[John Lillico, RPT]

>Hello List
>
>I am about to do a tuning pin tightening job on an old English upright.  Because of economic reasons, I intend using some Pacpin liquid tighter.  The piano will be laid on its back and the solution will be applied with a syringe, with a second dose a few days later.  Because of the age of the piano, the customer has little to lose and hopefully the pins (which are moderately loose), should be able to hold the tuning satisfactorily.  I am sure this is the recommended way to apply the solution but if there is anything else I should be doing, could someone let me know.  Thanks in advance.
>
>Brian Holden 

Hi Brian,

I don't know what Pacpin is, but I've had a fair bit of experience with old English pianos and pin tightener.

Remember, these pianos (likely) were not built for export, thus moisture content was not reduced sufficiently to withstand central heating. No need for it in early 20th century England. Their pianos of that era were more likely to have been "tropicalized" for export-- tacking down the key covers, the installation of a light socket, etc.

Exposure to central (or otherwise dry) heating is like placing the piano in a kiln. Your pin block "doping" (not named after me) treatment will work best when performed during the heating season. If you're in N.Z., hold off for six or seven months.

John Lillico, RPT,
Oakville, Ontario, Canada