Longer dampers than original

[Farrell]

It is a good idea "to replace dampers on an old upright with ones that are longer". I highly recommend getting a copy of Bill Spurlock's paper on Vertical Damper Replacement http://www.spurlocktools.com/id36.htm .  Piano Forte Supply has 55 mm and 67 mm long upright bass dampers:  http://www.pianofortesupply.com/dampers1.html

Yes, you could measure the spring tension with a spring gauge, but any old upright is likely to have very weak wires. Consider replacement - and it is often easier to replace the entire damper lever assembly.

I guarantee you, you don't want to mess with upright dampers without Bill Spurlock's paper in front of you. Only $2.50 and worth hundreds easily.

Terry Farrell
  ----- Original Message ----- 

            Is it a bad idea to replace dampers on an old upright with ones that are longer, we're talking about 3/8" longer (3/16ths at each end). ...and this would be for the bass's bi and mono dampers only. Is the longer length going to cause a problem when the damper goes to lift? 

  Also, while I am in there, is it a good idea to verrrry slightly (bend) each damper's spring wire so that it strengthens their pressure on the strings? Is there a way, perhaps a gage, to measure the pressure of these springs? If it can be measured, what should it be?

  Thanks
  Julia Gottshall,
  Reading, PA
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