[pianotech] Fixing stripped screws

[erwinspiano at aol.com]

Hi Rob
? I frequently find stripped action screws in Steinways. I mean the ones that attach the action brackets to the key frame. I found that simply adding a few drops to make the existing weak threads look wet, is usually enough to strengthen. In the course of an action job these screws come in & out enough times that if I feel one is starting to feel weak that this?is the best moment for great ca tightening results. Did it just an hour ago.?Make sure you spray with a mold release & then turn them in. Later they will turn out with little persuasion.
?I like your idea?as it seems that a really stripped screw would need some fiber filler such as paper towel.
? Great idea.
? Thanks
?Dale



-----Original Message-----
From: Rob Goodale <rrg at unlv.nevada.edu>
To: pianotech at ptg.org
Sent: Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:48 pm
Subject: [pianotech] Fixing stripped screws


Hello all,?
?
I thought I'd take a minute to tell you about a fabulous way to fix stripped screws. Perhaps this secret is already out and about but it was new to me so if there is anyone looking for a great solution, this Bud's for you. I can't take credit for this one, a colleague told me about it.?
?
You do not have to drill the hole out. Stuff the hole well with absorbent paper, (i.e. paper towel). Next soak the paper with the super thin CA glue. It absolutely MUST dry 100%. Use accelerator to speed the process up, but even after that wait at least a few minutes to make certain. The hole is now ready to use. Insert the screw and you will be amazed to see that it has the same feel as wood. It will snug down tight like it did originally and won't strip out. In fact if you over tighten it there is a chance you will break the screw head off before it will strip again, you might actually need to drill a pilot hole depending on the situation. This is a GREAT and reliable repair and takes little effort.?
?
The key to all this is that the CA must be totally dry and you must use the super thin. It is not only necessary to make the repair successful and restore the genuine wood-like qualities, but if you put the screw in before it's dry it will never come out again! Without question it will break the head off before it will turn and it will have to be drilled and dug out.?
?
Try this first in a piece of scrap wood, (maple, mahogany, etc - typical piano woods). Then the next time you come across that stripped lid hinge screw you can amaze your customers! It's a much better repair then stuffing the hole with tooth picks. I have to admit I was very reluctant to try this and highly skeptical that it would work but my doubts and apprehension have vaporized.?
?
Rob Goodale, RPT?
Las Vegas, NV?
?
?

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