[pianotech] Key lead fix?

[Laura Olsen]

Got any old keys with leads hanging around in your shop?  You might swap them with the Bluthner.
Regards,
Laura Olsen
On Apr 4, 2012, at 6:55 PM, David Boyce wrote:

> A 1913 Bluthner grand I tune every so often has the swollen key lead problem that has been discussed here previously.  In the past I have manged to file the odd sticking note on the spot. Today, quite a few notes were sticking and I showed the problem to the owner.  It was agreed that I should take the action away to file all the key leads and apply some lacquer or varnish to give a seal of sorts.
> 
> Unfortunately I have found that the problem is severe, and the swollen leads have caused at least half a dozen keys to split quite badly.  I have had to punch out the swollen oxidised leads in order to glue and clamp the keys back together again.
> 
> Really a comprehensive keyboard overhall is needed, as the backtouch felts and centre rail washers are quite motheaten, and probably all key leads should be removed and replaced.
> 
> I do not know if the owner will be willing or able to go to that expense, and in the meantime the piano is needed for guests who will be visiting soon.
> 
> What do you suggest I do with the keys I've removed the leads from, in terms of an interim "quick fix" to get the piano back together and working : 1) put the glued keys back with no leads, or 2) fill the holes with something else, like wood repair putty or Plastic Padding's metal repair stuff? 
> 
> Obtaining and fitting new leads is the bigger solution for the future, but what to do meantime?
> 
> Suggestions welcome!
> 
> Best regards,
> 
> David.
> <Key Leads 1.jpg><Split key 1.jpg><Split Key 2.jpg><Split Key 3.jpg><Split Key 4.jpg>

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