tuning pin bushings/Paul Chick

[Paul Chick (EarthLink)]

----- Original Message -----
From: "Joseph Garrett" <joegarrett@earthlink.net>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: Monday, January 13, 2003 8:27 PM
Subject: tuning pin bushings/Paul Chick


 Paul,
 I've done a couple of these Kimball Grands. Yes the plate bushings are a
different size! And, (the ones I did), are made out of pinblock material!
What I did was cut plugs with 1/2" plug cutter and force fit them. I first
drilled  the center of the plug with the appropriate drill bit for the
tuning pins. Then, I cut the plug. It was VERY time consuming, but, IMO, was
well worth it, as the tuning pin feel, was that of an open block. I loved it
and would do it again.
 Joe Garrett, RPT, (Oregon)

Joe
This reminds me of an early career experience.  The shop would typically
enlarge the hole in the web for more tuning pin clearance, thus eliminate
the pin dragging on the web when under string tension.  There was never a
problem. I'll bet they are still doing this.  There appears to be plenty of
room to resize these holes to accomodate a 1/2" plug.  Time for a little
experimenting (out of the piano).  I'll let you know what happens.

Paul Chick
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