damper guide coupler(?)

[Wimblees]

In a message dated 98-05-19 23:42:50 EDT, you write:

>List,
>Anyone know the purpose of that piece of maple that connects the bass and
>treble damper guide rails on Steinways?  It runs under both guide rails,
>and the rails have been cut out underneath to accept the piece in question.
> Thanks anybody!
>Vince Mrykalo RPT


Steinway started putting it there a hundred years ago, knowing that rebuilders
are going to curse Steinway for putting it there, because it always breaks,
and it is hard to put new felt under it. :)

Wim