Sound board repair with strings

[Ned Swift]

Hi all,

Back a few days ago, someone asked if it was possible to repair a sound 
board without removing the strings.  At first, I thought "no way" but then I 
got to thinking about it.  Assuming that it is a grand and not an upright, 
would it be possible to repair from underneath?

What I envision is turning the piano upside down and repairing the sound 
board with wood shims as if it were right side up with the strings off.  I 
know that the ribs would be a problem as I can't think of any way to get the 
shims under the rib.  While it is not a perfect solution since the repair 
would not be complete because of the ribs, wouldn't it be better then having 
the cracked sound board?

Another thought that occurred to me is using a thick epoxy.  Again, turn the 
piano upside down and repair from the bottom.  This method might even bond 
the board under the rims.

Or possible a combination of the shims and the epoxy.

I do not see either approaches as being long term.  But would they work 
until the piano can be fixed properly?  Why, why not.  Your thoughts?

Please be kind.  I do not have a flame suit and that nice nurse has not yet 
brought me my medication for the evening.  ;-0

Ned Swift
Lowell, MI




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