assist spring installation

[Paul McCloud]

Dave:
    I got a tip from a hands-on class in Reno that answers your
question.  The cord used to install damper springs in flanges has two
parts.  The outer sheath, and the inner strands of cotton.  The outer
sheath is like a finger puzzle, you know the kind where you put two
fingertips into a sheath and they lock together.  Cut a piece of cord
about as long as you need.  Pull back the sheath from one end and "fray"
the sheath so you can see the inner strands.  Pull out the inner strands
out about an inch or so.  Then mix a little white glue with water and
size the sheath on the opposite end, which has now become smaller
because you pulled the inner strands out the other end.  Saturate the
sheath with the sizing and roll it with your fingers so it elongates as
you pull it (remember the finger puzzle- it gets tighter as you pull
it).  Let it dry.   Voila!
    Hope this helps.
    Paul McCloud
    San Diego

> I'm installing a set of Renner turbo wippens with assist springs and
> the last 20 or so do not have the spring.  Renner provides a kit to do
> those last 20, if necessary, and in the case of this piano, it is.
> The cord which secures the spring in place seems to be sized with glue
> to help feed it through the too-small-holes in the back of the
> flange.  Is there a special technique to getting that cord fed through
> those holes?  Once done, what is the best way to secure it?  And
> finally, what kind of glue works best for sizing the cord  David Love