Help on preparation for the written test

[Paul McCloud]

Phil:
    In question #5, you can check a sluggish action using the right
pedal because you compress the damper springs.  The damper springs help
return the whippen and key to the rest position.  If you compress them
with your pedal, you can detect any sluggishness (excess friction) in
the action centers (whippen, jack and hammer flanges) and the key
(bushings, warped keys rubbing together, etc.).  Using the left pedal
would help determine if the hammer flanges are too tight, but the
question as stated would indicate that the right pedal is the best
answer.
    #6 I agree your answer is correct.  Moving the plate closer to the
soundboard/bridge will increase downbearing.  Look at a cutaway view of
a grand piano and you will see this is true.  Baldwin uses a unique
system where they adjust the downbearing on some models by using a
straight vertical roll pin in place of the usual hitch pin.  By sliding
the loop up and down the pin, you can increase or decrease the
downbearing on any individual string.  In addition, by turning the plate
perimeter bolts, you can raise or lower the plate without removing it.
Never "tighten" these bolts as you might do on other models, lest you
misadjust  the downbearing and perhaps crack the plate.
       Best of luck,
    Paul McCloud