Scott, I have worked on similar Webers and successfully replaced the pin blocks. It is no easy job. This type of design, were the pin block is inserted into the case, requires considerable care. The open webbing in the plates pin block area and the design of the plate in general means that the pin block and case support more of the string tension. I personally would do no less than copy the design. Do not try to cheat by adding a shelf or leaving some of the original block to support the ends. I have seen a number cases were the plate has cracked from inadequate pin block replacement on similar designs. On some of these Webers there are blocks on both sides of the case that cover the pin block. These have to be removed. Do not try to save these by splitting them from the sides. I have seen the sides of cases damaged from this. Waist them by carefully nibbling them away with a chisel. New side pieces will be needed. Make them from solid wood and apply venire to the faces before gluing them back in. The ones I have seen also have a veneered cove on the tail end, this too can be veneered. At this point you are only half way through. Many of these blocks have complicated profiles that fit inside the plate. Some times it is best to build the block in two or three layers laminating them together after fitting them to the plate. Scott, please check this plate very carefully for any sign of cracks. Some of these have plate problems that can get worse during a rebuild. John Hartman
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