[pianotech] Front rail pin extraction

[John Ross]

I just use side cutters, and a block, and just lever out.
The block would be like a roller on a see-saw.
John Ross
Windsor, Nova Scotia
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Court Stewart 
  To: pianotech at ptg.org 
  Sent: Tuesday, July 14, 2009 9:54 AM
  Subject: [pianotech] Front rail pin extraction


  Hello, all.  Long time lurker, first time poster here. 

  I've got a customer whose old upright has some highly corroded front rail pins (I suspect a spill of some sort is the cause -- the corrosion is much worse in one area than the rest).  The keys are in dire need of rebushing, but first the old pins have got to go -- the corrosion is beyond polishing away and the pins are pitted.  I tried pulling one yesterday and just about threw my back out.  After trying different pliers and prying techniques I decided to try heating the pin up.  After that, I was finally able to yank the sucker out.  But the pins are extremely tight, and even with the heating it was a tough go just to pull one.  Also, it's pretty humid here right now, though it gets worse.  

  What are some favorite techniques to use in this situation?  I'm not sure I'm up to doing this 87 more times and if anyone can help it's you guys. 

  Thanks in advance for any advice you may offer.

  Court Stewart
  Roanoke Chapter 
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