[pianotech] Pulley Key repair - (again)-was balance hole break-loose noise

[johnparham at piano88.com]

It may have already been mentioned, but Schaff has a kit called
Key-Craft (Part number 258) for around $25 that rebuilds the balance
rail hole.

-John Parham

> -------- Original Message --------
> Subject: [pianotech] Pulley Key repair - (again)-was balance hole
> break-loose noise
> From: "Joseph Garrett" <joegarrett at earthlink.net>
> Date: Mon, September 05, 2011 2:44 pm
> To: "pianotech" <pianotech at ptg.org>
> 
> 
> William M said: "I'm told it works but haven't done it. I like the
> reliability of the Onesti
> system in that with care, it will absolutely maintain the position of the
> balance rail hole. Veneer shimming has more potential to relocate the hole.
> This certainly may be a case of using a microscope when a magnifier will
> do, but..... 
>  
> William,
> Like any other skill we use, it takes a little practice to get it right. I
> use an Exacto saw, (used to use a "Gentleman's Saw), if I'm using really
> thin veneer. (all veneer is not the same thickness...depends on the
> vintage/source) BTW, I usually make my own veneer for such jobs. Place the
> saw blade AT the hole, not IN the hole. A few careful strokes and you will
> have the proper slot to insert the veneer. Remember to not go past the
> balance hole depth itself! Remember the profile of the Balance Hole Mortise
> in your mind's eye, (side view), when you do this and it'll help NOT to go
> too deep.<G>  
> "Also, veneer shimming won't address the sides of the hole." ???huh???<G>
> If the sides of the hole have been filed, then you are correct in wanting
> to replace the "hole". However, on normal balance hole repair/sizing/etc.,
> the sides of the hole are not the issue. Using the Round Toothpick trick I
> described in my last post, can be done on the sides of the hole also. One
> Caveat tho: because you are working in the grain line of the wood next to
> the hole, you will need to proceed very carefully with the pounding in of
> the toothpick. Another DAMHIK<G> In this proceedure, I insert a balance
> pin, before pounding in the toothpick.
> Best Regards,
> Joe
> 
> 
> Joe Garrett, R.P.T.
> Captain of the Tool Police
> Squares R I