oversize bridge pins

[Robert Goodale]

John,
There is no such thing as "oversized bridge pins".   Bridge pins are specific
sizes for specific sized holes in specific areas of the bridges.  Forcing the
next sized pin in a hole will do wonders for producing bridge cracks, even if
you do ream the hole.  It will also change the way that the string makes contact
with the bridge which may only complicate the false beat problem.  There are
huge differences between each size.

The fact that the "rebuilders" did nothing to the bridges and that they don't
even stock pins should give you a real clue about the quality and experience of
their work.  Their suggestion also says a lot.  I would completely agree with
your reservations about doing this.  Without hesitation I would do a complete
and proper epoxy repair with new pins of the proper size.  Clean the bridges up
real nice, re-dag, and file tops of the new pins flat, and you'll come off as a
hero.  I would also demand that the "rebuilders" pay for every red cent.  This
should do wonders for their reputation, (and yours).

Rob Goodale, RPT
Las Vegas, NV


"John M. Formsma" wrote:

> List,
>
> I have a customer with a late 1800s very recently rebuilt Steinway (new
> pinblock/strings).  I believe that he said it was a model L.  Anyway, the
> rebuilders did no bridge repair.  No epoxy, no new pins--nothing!  The
> treble has many false beats throughout.  He has contacted the rebuilders who
> suggested oversize bridge pins.  (These folks apparently do no bridge work
> since they do not even stock bridge pins in their shop--they had to order
> them.)  They were willing to send their technician to put oversize pins in
> the bridge.  Because of the questionable experience of these rebuilders, my
> gut feeling is that there would be no drilling involved which would likely
> cause cracks in the bridge when oversize pins are put in.
>
> The customer is a structural engineer and owns a book by Wm Braid White on
> piano servicing.  We have talked at length about the false beats and he
> understands the cause of them.  After talking with me about the oversize
> pins and the chance of the bridge cracking if done improperly, he decided
> that I will be his technician, and has made arrangements with the rebuilders
> for me to do the work on the piano.  He prefers drilling for oversize pins.
> I have reservations about putting oversize pins in for the entire treble
> section, and prefer the epoxy repair.  Since I am the technician, we will do
> it my way :-) unless oversize pins is just as good.  What are your thoughts
> on this?