soaking bushings

[Mike and Jane Spalding]

Joe,

Thanks much for the step-by-step.  I tried it today, and I really like how it works.  The bushing seems to provide additional PDF to the pinblock as the pin is driven through.  One question, though:  when the bushings have the right liquid content, you get a little bit of squirt as they're driven.  So I had to wipe down the plate with a solvent-moistened cloth after driving each bushing.  Is this how it works for you?  Any time-saving tricks for the clean-up?

thanks,

Mike 

----- Original Message ----- 
From: Joseph Garrett <joegarrett@earthlink.net>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: Tuesday, May 28, 2002 10:16 PM
Subject: Oversize pins in a doped block/Mike spalding's ? re.bushings


> Mike,
> The beauty of soaking the bushings is that the bushing becomes flexible!
> Here's how it's done: Several days to a week before stinging starts, put the
> correct size/number of bushings in a large jar. (Peanut butter?). Put about
> 1 table spoon of Pin Driving Fluid in. Pour in about a 1/2 pint of
> "Synthetic Reducer". Mix it up real gud! Let soak. When the bushings sink to
> the bottom, they're ready to use. Leave the "floaters", they will eventually
> sink too. When I am ready to start stringing, I extract, (w/hemostats),
> six-nine bushings, (this depends on how fast a stringer you are), place them
> on double paper towel, on a piece of masonite or any other somewhat
> disposable plank. (The synthetic reducer is pretty strong stuff so don't put
> it on your prized Work Bench!) (Don't ask!) :-( I usually grab three more
> out of the jar when I have put three in and have strung two holes. Insert
> the bushings with a bushing punch. If they squirt all over the place, they
> are still too wet. You should just get a small amount of "squirt". <G>
> Testing will tell you when they're just right. Once the bushing is inserted,
> swab the pin block/bushing with pin driving fluid. Sting away, keeping the
> cycle going. When you anticipate stopping, then use the last ones on the
> paper towel or put them back in the jar. I always have strict orders, when
> stringing, to not be disturbed unless ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY, (like maybe the
> house is on fire or some other dif-fuc-il-ty.)
> That's pretty much it. Happy stringing. And for gawd sake wear ear/eye
> protection!
> Best Regards,
> Joe Garrett, RPT, (Oregon)
> 
>