Key pin friction

Rick.Florence@ASU.Edu Rick.Florence@ASU.Edu
Wed, 06 Dec 1995 09:48:43 -0700


>        I have noticed that on concert instruments the front rail key pins
>seem to "oxidize" and feel "rough" when the key is depressed while holding
>it against either side of the key pin. I polish the pins every 6 months or
>so, and lube them with McLube, a mold release product. This does the trick
>for a while. I also check for nicks in the pins left by some Neanderthal
>key spacing tools. : ) Has anyone else noticed this, and if so, what do
>you do about it? Any ideas on what causes this?  Thanks for all answers.

John,

We have also experienced this problem with our Steinway and Mason & Hamlin
grands.  I assume that these are Kluge keys.  I believe that the problem is
in the type of glue used in the bushing.  If you soak the bushing with
liquid McLube (1725) it lasts much longer than trying to apply it to only
the pin (no, this does not release the bushing).  This has usually bought
us enough time until rebushing is needed.  The new bushings so far have
been a permanent repair ie. the problem is in the bushings, not the pins.

----
Rick Florence, Piano Technician
 Arizona State University School of Music
 Rick.Florence@ASU.Edu







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