Steinway Plate strut Q

[Ron Nossaman]

> I recently encountered, for the first time ever, a SS- D where the cross 
> strut (my term here) had been removed.
> The strut I am referring to is the one that connects from the bass/tenor 
> break over to the treble hitch pin and support bolt area.
> It is plate steel and usually has STEINWAY raised cast onto the metal. 
> It connects to the plate with machine screws.

It's cast iron.


> Initial findings and observations: The 2 machine screws were still 
> screwed into the plate.
> Pitch was at 440.  Noticable lack of sustain in treble and high treble. 
> Plate had no structural issues (yet)

The missing strut has nothing whatsoever to do with the lack 
of treble sustain. That comes from a series of design problems.


> I am uncertain who what or when this was done but my best guess is that 
> it was forgotten during a restringing.

Possibly, but then the screws wouldn't still be there unless 
the stringer's final brain cell died just as he finished. 
These things are very often removed for hands and feet inside 
prepared piano performances, and the aftermath typically 
ignored by the performer. I suspect the strut "disappeared" 
during one such performance.

I wouldn't expect it's remaining missing to have any 
particular long term negative affects, but I'd at least try to 
find out where the piano has been, and ask around.


> All comments and opinions as to the good bad or indifferent of this 
> issue are appreciated. I do have a plan of action but wanted to field
> this one to the list first.
> Cordially,
> Gerry Cousins, RPT
> cousins_gerry at msn.com

So what's the plan of action?
Ron N