Tuning Pins (resend)

kam544@flash.net kam544@flash.net
Fri, 12 Nov 1999 07:45:09 -0600


>...No offence meant, but I know very few techs who subscribe to the idea
>that tapping pins in has any real lasting value...

No offense taken, Richard, but maybe it's because you only know a few
techs.  <grin>

>...I think you will find you are in the distinct minority here.. but so be it.

>From conjecture on your part to later asking me if I've taken torque
readings.  So be it.    <hehehe>

>...prefering to just change the pins, and solve the problem on a more
>permanant basis...

Either a tuning pin is holding the position it is put in by the tuner
throughout the changing environment, or it is not.  If tapping a pin
achieves that objective, and does it with longevity, how is that any less
effective than the replacement of the tuning pin?

>...Otherwise I refer the customer to a couple other techs I know that are
>motivated to doing >the quick fix kinda thing. grin. No slant intended :)

Depending on the circumstances, it's far from a quick fix.  The only
motivation I have is to serve each situation as it dictates.  If replacing
a tuning pin is in order, I do it.  If it's not, I don't.  No reflection
meant  :)

>Richard Brekne
>I.C.P.T.G.  N.P.T.F.
>Bergen, Norway
>
>kam544@flash.net wrote:
>
>> ...I respectfully submit that the entire surface of the tuning
>> pin hole is affected by this tap, thereby creating more than ample friction
>> to introduce holding power once again.
>
>I think research into this matter will show you otherwise,, but if it
>"works" for you.. great.

The research has already been done for me.  I have had tuning pins go from
a non-holding position to tighter than I like.  No way that little 3mm of
wood you mentioned is doing that by itself.

>...actually I am suprised to hear from an RPT any positive comments about
>this >proceedure..but each new day brings a suprise.

Cheep...cheep...cheep shots at best.   :-)

Being an RPT doesn't change the truth about what I know to be true.  Take
away the letters and the results remain the same, factual.  Actually
though, Richard, I'm surprised that someone with I.C.P.T.G. &  N.P.T.F.
after their name would have a contrary position, and from another country
as well.  <twisting and turning in the hot seat  :) >

>...Perhaps different climates have something to say in all this ??

Perhaps.

>Have you ever taken torque reading on these ??

Yes.  My tuning arm and the passage of time has told me the torque reading
is quite sufficient on the pianos I have done.

BTW: I was particularly impressed with your trouble shooting on that Yamaha
grand with the slight flex in the hammer rail!  That truly was superb!!

Keith McGavern
Registered Piano Technician
Oklahoma Chapter 731
Piano Technicians Guild
USA





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