Killer Tails

[Mike Spalding]

Alan,
1.  Tails and backchecks:  Tails don't need to be "checkered".  What 
they need is to be properly arced, and clean.  Use theSpurlock jig to 
put a 2.5" to 3" radius on them, with a 80 to 120 grit disc, and you'll 
be in business.

2. Yes, Asian rocks.  They should open up with vise grip squeezing, 
which might also soften them up enough that you can get a needle in.  If 
not, do the Jolly steam thing, then needle as necessary.  But not before 
you re-pin to get the friction up where it belongs, and do the regulation.

3.  I did some warranty work on a Hyundai 6 or 7 years ago, at that time 
the contact was

Gary Galanti
North American Music Inc.
126 Route 303
West Nyack, NY 10994
Telephone: 845-353-3520
The pianos from that era were manufactured by Samick for Hyundai.
Here is the North American Music website:   http://www.namusic.com/
It looks like they're not repping Hyundai anymore.

Mike

Alan Barnard wrote:
> One piano, three questions, please ....
>
> Piano: Hyundai G-82 5'9" grand, just under 10 years old
>
> Problem One:  Backcheck buckskin (?) worn, torn, shredded.
> Suspect: Hammer tails have are intentionally grooved for "grip" but I 
> think this has abraded the bc's.
> Proposed Treatment: Sand hammer tails smooth, which will also make the 
> tails curve in more (smaller radius at the tail ends) and, maybe cove 
> them, too. 
> Advice Sought: Any comments (suggestions, warnings, threats) from the 
> incredible pool of talent and experience out there?
>
> Problem Two: Bad regulation (infinite hammer swings, for example) and 
> serious voicing issues (lack of or inconsistent sustain, "pinched" 
> notes, etc.)
> Suspect: Less than premium piano + minimal factory prep + zero store 
> prep + 10 years of playing = Disappointing case of ookiness
> Proposed Treatment: Full reg and voicing
> Advice Sought: Any comments, especially from people who know the 
> brand, would be greatly appreciated. I have very limited voicing 
> experience, but presume these pianos are the typical Asian boulders.
>
> Also, also, also ... How and where can I go to find out if the 
> backcheck problem is under a warranty. The dealer is not in business 
> in St. Louis any more and the outfit specializes (and pushes) 
> electronic pianos. I found this number for Hyundai's American 
> distributor 1-914-353-3520 in New York -- but the number is no longer 
> good (never a good sign). Anybody know?
>
> Alan Barnard
> Salem, MO