In a message dated 98-07-17 09:44:47 EDT, Mike Musial writes: << I am experiencing a recurring problem when I tune newer Steinway grands. Sometimes when I apply a test blow while tuning, the damper (usually tenor/treble) will "hang" and not return to the string unless I tap it back down with my finger. >> Mike, It may also be that the sostenuto needs adjusting. Check the Steinway service manual for instructions. You can tell if this is the problem if when you push it lightly back down, it "snaps" ever so slightly. On a hard blow the sostenuto tab on the damper top flange shoots on by the sostenuto knife. In the meantime, activate the sostenuto at a section end, look in with a flashlight, and see if the knife is catching enough of the tab (should be between 1/32" and 1/16". Or, activate the sostenuto, play a key softly, and lift up on the damper head to see if you can feel it catch. Or you can simply adjust the knife away from you the tiniest amount and see if that solves the problem. Or, pull the cheekblocks out and push the action in a fraction to temporarily mimic moving the knife. You can test the damper for friction just by feel. With the action out, just lift and release the underlever slowly with one finger. Also, the wire should press ever so lightly on the bushing on the side closest to the unison being damped. Push it gently away and let go. You can develop a feel for how much is too much. Double check the height of the damper upstop rail. With the pedal on and a sharp depressed, there should be no or almost no additional upward play in the damper head. Regards, Bob Davis
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