Key top removal

[Avery Todd]

Paul,

How much difference would there be in cost between doing this and having
Pianotec do a new keyboard for you??? Just wondering. It might be worth it!

Avery

At 11:21 AM 9/30/05, you wrote:
>Recently there was a good deal of discussion here re the installation of
>new key coverings...which glue to use, clamping methods and the like.
>
>My question is what is the best method for getting the old key tops off?
>
>I have a Baldwin D that had new key coverings installed in 2000. My best
>guess is that these new coverings where not the first, or maybe even the
>second set of replacements this keyboard has gotten.
>
>There are large spaces between all keys, telling me that the keys were
>either sanded too much or too many times. It really has a
>snaggle-toothed look that is very distracting, not to mention ugly.
>
>When I lay new key tops on top of the existing ones the gaps disappear.
>My plan is to remove these key tops, veneer the sides of the keys as
>necessary, and then recover the keys.
>
>BUT.... Whoever did the keys the last time did a swell job of gluing
>them on. PVC-E was probably used, definitely NOT contact cement.
>
>I can't even get a thin blade under.
>
>
>SOooooo....what suggestions have you on how I should proceed. Heat,
>steam, ??? I'd rather not beat these keys up too badly.
>
>Help
>
>
>
>
>Paul E. Dempsey, RPT
>Piano Technician Sr.
>Marshall University
>Huntington, WV
>304-696-5418
>304-617-1149
>
>_______________________________________________
>pianotech list info: https://www.moypiano.com/resources/#archives