Hi Rusty: A couple of years ago I dealt with this problem of Baldwin rep springs. The generic problem is one of spring-rate. This is quite evident in the small Baldwins like M, R and L which use the Clemson action with the short spring with a loop in it. Since this spring is so short, the presure changes too much when it is actuated. It is necessary to have a quicker rise of the hammer from check in order that the spring will still be strong enough to support the hammer at rest. Too loose pinning of the rep lever or too tight pinning can both cause problems. The basic problem is the short spring. This is born out in a comparison of the "butterfly spring on Steinways and old M&H pianos compared to those which use the Schwander action with the long straight spring. The butterfly spring works better because it is longer. The better manufacturers have more or less come to agreement on this in the last 10 years. Jim Coleman, Sr.
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