Moving knuckles

[Wolfley, Eric (wolfleel)]

Alan,

When I did this operation to a similar set I followed exactly the steps you
have outlined with one exception. I made a simple jig which allowed me to
make a precise cut to the new dimension with a razor saw. The little bit of
waste left over chipped right out (usually flush to the bottom of the
mortise) with a little bit of pressure from a sharp chisel. Any left-over
wood cleaned out very easily with the chisel. This method is very precise
and quiet. You can listen to music while you work instead of the sound of
1,000 killer bees looking to chew on your fingers. I seem to remember the
whole process took about 4-6 hours including removal, cutting and
replacement. It takes a bit longer than cutting off the old knuckles but
then you don't have the expense of the new knuckles or new router bits or
blades...

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Eric Wolfley
Head Piano Technician
College-Conservatory of Music
University of Cincinnati
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-----Original Message-----
From: Alan McCoy [mailto:amccoy@mail.ewu.edu] 
Sent: Monday, July 19, 2004 7:53 PM
To: CAUTlist
Subject: Moving knuckles

Hi folks,

I have a situation here where instead of replacing shanks, I am going to use
the not-so-old shanks and move the knuckles out to 17mm. The knuckles are
really not all that worn so instead of band sawing them off I am thinking of
just pulling them off and moving them (if that diameter will work in the new
position). Then I'll glue in a piece of hardwood to fill the old slot and
cut a new slot. I'm thinking that I'd prefer routing out the new slot but
I'd like to hear some thoughts from others who have done this operation
before.

Thanks.

Alan McCoy, RPT
Eastern Washington U

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