We got a brand new Steinway D last spring. I have noticed on a couple occasions one of the hinge pins was lying on the floor next to the piano. Investigating, I discovered that Steinway has changed the diameter of the pin, so that it is a fair bit smaller than the diameter of the holes it goes into. This makes it much easier to insert and remove. It also makes it possible that someone brushing against the side of the piano in close quarters might manage to dislodge one (what I think happened here). They also have a rubber cap over the bent end that sticks out - protects the finish, but makes it more likely someone brushing against it will catch it. In looking more closely to see how I might deal with this potential problem, I noticed that each pin is bent slightly in the center. Thus, if the pin is firmly pushed all the way in (bent portion flush), there is a good friction fit - probably plenty to keep someone brushing next to it from dislodging. So all in all a good design as long as the stage crew makes sure to insert the pin all the way when replacing the lid. Just thought I'd share the observation, since there is nothing much worse than opening a lid and having it crash to the floor. Regards, Fred Sturm University of New Mexico
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