[pianotech] sluggish (was no subject)

[Keith McGavern]

Matthew,

As to proper procedure would be to weigh off the keys as evenly as  
possible, mark the location of key weights and size to be installed,  
remove the keys, drill holes, swage the weights into place, replace  
the keys and test your work.

However, Matthew, the easiest and quickest way to remedy the problem  
is to add jiffy weights to insure the key returns to a home position.  
It is also the least expensive to the customer. Not a pretty fix when  
you look inside the piano, but very effective.

Keith


On Jun 12, 2009, at 3:30 PM, Matthew Todd wrote:

> I went back to the clients home this afternoon top diagnose the  
> sluggish key.  Sure enough, it is a key weight issue.  I eliminated  
> all other possible issues (such as key bushings, flanges, etc).
>
> Now, what is the proper procedure to correct this problem?
>
> TODD PIANO WORKS
> Matthew Todd, Piano Technician
> (979) 248-9578
> http://www.toddpianoworks.com
>
>
> --- On Fri, 6/5/09, Keith McGavern <kam544 at allegiance.tv> wrote:
>
> From: Keith McGavern <kam544 at allegiance.tv>
> Subject: Re: [pianotech] sluggish (was no subject)
> To: pianotech at ptg..org
> Date: Friday, June 5, 2009, 11:59 PM
>
>
> On Jun 5, 2009, at 6:30 PM, Matthew Todd wrote:
>
> >  I then held the key and moved the backcheck, and it returned fine.
>
> Matthew,
>
> I assume in this test you were attempting to eliminate the wippen  
> flange as being the cause of the sluggishness.
> You may have done this and didn't say it in your post, but you also  
> need to disconnect the bridle strap and hold the hammer assembly  
> towards the strings as well as holding the key to feel sluggishness  
> in the wippen flange when you lift it somewhat up and down.
>
> Aside from this test, most likely you have a key weight problem,  
> especially if you do determine the flange centers and the key  
> bushings are basically free. It is not an uncommon situation in some  
> Wurlitzer vertical pianos. Also, nested bushings are very possible  
> as the angle of the keyarm can be quite severe in some of these  
> pianos in the treble section.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Keith

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