[pianotech] sustain pedal problem

[Claude Harding]

Tom,
  I would recommend checking the alignment of the spring.  To serve as the
most efficient fulcrum, I think it should be "in line" on a line between the
pedal prop and the place where it engages the bottom of the pedal dowel.  If
possible, the bottom of the pedal dowel should be directly below the point
where it engages the damper lift rod, not at a significant angle.  This may
not always be possible, but get it as close as you can.
 That's my recommendation.  If it doesn't work, it is evidently worth
everything it cost you.  :-)
Claude Harding

  _____  

From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf
Of Tom Sivak
Sent: Monday, August 03, 2009 4:30 PM
To: pianotech
Subject: [pianotech] sustain pedal problem


List 


I'm sure many of you have dealt with this problem, on Wurlitzers and other
spinets, and I seek your advice.

The problem: the sustain pedal does not lift the dampers due to the trap
lever not pivoting very well.  The trap lever on this piano pivots on a "C"
shaped spring, which is anchored to the floor of the piano and to the lever.
In a perfect world, it would rock back and forth on this spring, the pedal
pulling it down on one end, and the other end going up to raise the damper
lift rod.

However, the lever moves laterally when the pedal is depressed, and there is
very little damper lift.

I've seen loose anchoring screws cause the problem, and have tightened or
shimmed the holes and tightened them.    But the screws are tight on this
one.  It just seems to lean to the side instead of rock.

Any suggestions on a fix?  New spring, maybe?

Tom Sivak
Chicago
 
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