safety/idiots and sharp objects

[Dave Nereson]

----- Original Message -----
From: Patrick Greene <greeneguy63@mindspring.com>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: Friday, August 03, 2001 10:02 PM
Subject: Re: safety/idiots and sharp objects


> I am terrible with strings.  I don't know what it is, but I can't seem to
> figure out how to back the pin out enough to get the string off and
restrung
> so the coil is nice and tight, also, I always bust three knuckles and
slice
> a finger open during the process of fixing one string.
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Brian Trout <grandrestorations@yahoo.com>
> To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
> Sent: Friday, August 03, 2001 10:38 AM
> Subject: Re: safety/idiots and sharp objects

You only need to back the pin out about a quarter or half a turn to get the
becket out of the hole in the pin (use a needle nose pliers -- you might
even file one of the jaws thin, for getting between the string and the pin).
Then back the pin out (with a T-hammer) another turn or so if you're
pre-winding the coil, and about 2 1/2 turns if you're winding the coil on
the pin.  Use needle nose pliers for threading the string into the pin, get
or make a coil winder and a coil lifter (although some of these lifters
don't fit when the pins are close together and you have to use a
screwdriver, but be careful when prying), do things carefully and take your
time -- make sure the tools are not worn, the right size, and positioned
correctly before applying a lot of force.  Don't yank the old string out --
just a steady pull, and watch the ends -- they're what cut, slice and poke.
Have a logical, methodical procedure.  Don't rush or force things.  Haste
makes waste, usually.  I still occasionally poke or cut my finger on piano
wire, but usually only when tying a knot -- I keep a few of those small size
band-aids in my kit.  Next time piano wire draws blood, ask yourself what
you did that caused it, and how you could do it differently next time.
Sincerely,   Dave Nereson, RPT