[pianotech] Key lead fix?

[Mike Spalding]

David,

Before you decide to return the action without replacing the leads, 
measure the down weight of the affected keys, and compare it to the keys 
whose leads are still intact.  Do you think that amount of unevenness in 
the touch is acceptable?  If so, return the action without filling the 
holes  - you'd only have to remove the filler when you get around to 
re-installing leads.  If not, then do whatever you have to do to get 
some leads installed.

Mike

On 4/4/2012 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.