separated back

[Bdshull@AOL.COM]

Hi, Clyde:

I did one of these Cable console back repairs a few months ago, with the back 
separated just like you described.  The veneer on top of the piano disguises 
the separation, so I missed it at first too--although its good to know I 
wasn't the only one who didn't immediately catch it....

I actually completely relaxed the tension.  It makes pulling everything back 
together easier.  Be patient and don't use fast setting glue or epoxy.  Quote 
for a hammer filing too -- string alignment won't be quite as critical, and t 
probably needs it anyway (I would gang file the hammers on this piano...).  I 
drilled extra holes so that my repair bolts went through every post.  I also 
repaired the bottom, which was also separating.  Piano is solid at A440.   
Worth it if you get paid well for your trouble, which is about what the piano 
will be worth when you are done.

Bill Shull, RPT


In a message dated 10/11/00 4:00:13 AM Pacific Daylight Time, 
cedel@supernet.com writes:

<< Friends,
 
 Today I am going to look at a piano I might obtain and repair.  It is a
 1947 Cable console with a separated back, a gap of about 1/2 inch, and
 it has an aluminum plate.  I tuned this piano a couple times 5-6 years
 ago.  Not being very observant, I guess, I didn't notice the separation
 until the third time I went to tune; it had wood veneer glued across the
 top.  If I recall correctly, it's a pretty little thing, a shame to
 discard, but Cable pianos aren't rated very high in my mind.
 
 I've repaired back separations several times, with good success, but
 never one with such a large separation.  What are my chances of pulling
 this gap together without the aluminum plate cracking?  Should I even
 attempt it?  Input appreciated.
 
 Regards,
 Clyde Hollinger, RPT >>