In-Home Vertical Damper Replacement

[Mark Wisner]

I'd remove the damper felts in the shop then glue on the new felt with the action installed using the damper springs as clamps.  A small squeeze bottle of aliphatic glue should keep things tidy.

-----Original Message-----
From: Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>
Sent: Nov 19, 2003 10:45 AM
To: pianotech@ptg.org
Subject: In-Home Vertical Damper Replacement

Hello listees,

I am scheduled to install a set of new damper felts on a 1960s Baldwin studio. I've done this work in my shop before, but am having nightmares of hot glue pots knocked over on carpet, drips of hide glue running down strings, etc., etc.

What is the best systematic way of doing this in a home. This 38 year-old Hamilton looks like it came off the Cincinnati assembly line two days ago - much like the rest of her spotless living room. Neatness is paramount! In fact, I'm not so sure now that it even matters if the felts stay on - I just gotta keep it neat!!!

I have the action in my shop now and will be going back to her home to install the felts.

Having done this job in my shop before, I hadn't really given it much thought. But now that I am faced with Her, Her piano and Her living room - and She will be peering right over my shoulder for the whole job - I'm gettin' the Willies! I'm much more nervous thinking of this job that I was building and installing my first soundboard!

Thanks.

Terry Farrell

Mark Wisner
National Service Manager
Pearl River Piano Group America
800 435 5086 ext 111