Hi list, I just prepped 2 new Steinways this week, a B and a D and I was wondering if any have had similar problems.... After the piano sat for a few weeks, the music desks were swollen up so much, I COULD NOT GET THEM OFF. Really. (RH was 56%) It took me 20 minutes for one, an hour for the D. I finally padded the desk and hit it with a very heavy iron door weight (my hammer wasn't heavy enough) moving it 1/8" at a time alternating each side till it came off. I was worn out before starting my work. (I trimmed all parts and reinstalled, no problem) Also, the lacquer on the last several pianos has not completely cured for months. The lid buttons, desk felt, cheek blocks all stick together and the lid covers make marks on the finish. Are they using water base lacquer now? I see more finish problems this last year than before. The pianos came out beautifully when prepped, still a great instrument, I think. Lots of improvement (especially actions) over a few years ago. When hardening hammers, is there an efficient procedure? I've found that 1 application of lacquer (25%), listen after 3-4 hours to see where weaker areas are, apply more there, relisten after 3-4 hrs, and regulate, etc., while they dry. Voice after drying overnight. But, I'm wondering if there is a smarter way so as not to spend the day breathing lacquer and still get the piano finished in a quick turn around time. Maybe not : ) Thanks! Lance Lafargue, RPT Mandeville, LA New Orleans Chapter, PTG lancelafargue@bellsouth.net 985.72P.IANO
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