Fw:Billings Flanges/Butts/Bushings

[Joseph Garrett]

All,
At Alan's request, my response to his questions:
I usually check a batch of butt bushings to see how small I can go and only
have to slightly burnish the bushings, rather than ream and burnish. Once I
get the smallest size, usable, I check to see what this size pin will do in
the Billings Flange. If a small amount of "spreading" of the flange is
necessary, I figure out what a systematic way would be with various sized
wedges. Spreading a small amount is ok, as when you put the flange in and
screw the flange screw tight, it will "crimp" the flange the proper amount.
It sounds complicated, but is not. Unfortuately, each set of butts and
flanges are different, so a little experimentation is necessary each time
you do this job.
Best Regards,
Joe Garrett, RPT, (Oregon)

Been There, Didn't Like It, So I'm Here To Stay! [G}
----- Original Message -----
From: <tune4u@earthlink.net>
To: "Joseph Garrett" <joegarrett@earthlink.net>
Sent: Monday, May 05, 2003 8:36 PM
Subject: RE: Brass Rail Butts


> Mr. Experience:
>
> I ordered a set of butts w/o the flanges and a set of flanges w/o the
butts
> (before you emailed me that you had flanges on hand).
>
> Would you be kind enough to give me pointers on assembling these things?
> I've never done it.
>
> Is there a known best center pin size? If not, do you size the pin to the
> bushing or ream the bushing for the pin?
> Do you shove the pin through the slot of the flange as though it were a
> birds eye or pry it open a little and squeeze it shut around the pin?
> What pitfalls might I encounter?
>
> If are so inclined to provide this advice, why don't you shoot this email
> and your reply to the pianotech site so others can benefit, too.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Alan
>
>