Dennis- I'm just finishing up the action of an old Bechstein with rocker/sticker action. It was in good condition, and the owner didn't want the action changed. There does seem to be a different feel to the action with the wippens linked to the keys. The owner is a very sensitive, articulate player, not into power and bombast, so the piano is very appropriate for her. It is a lot of work and will cause you to rethink your methods to avoid pulling and replacing the stack as much as possible. If someone knows a quick and easy way to adjust the rockers, I wish they would write! Be aware that the action geometry is not what we usually see. The shank is above level at let-off and the hammers are hung raking back so that they are perpendicular to the string at contact. You may need to do some woodworking to duplicate the hammers. Ed Sutton ---------- >From: Dennis Johnson <johnsond@stolaf.edu> >To: caut@ptg.org >Subject: old Beckstein >Date: Tue, Mar 27, 2001, 9:40 AM > > > > Has anyone ever tried to modify the old rocker style capstan/whippen > connection with short sticker to the modern capstan which would > then accommodate new Renner replacement whippens? I'm considering whether > or not to accept such an action job on an old 1880's Beckstein Grand with > that system, and not really sure I'm interested if I can't use all new > parts. It would probably involve adding a small wood block on top the key > to mount the new capstan, but ultimately the geometry should not be > affected if done correctly, and would be much improved and more reliable > with the modern capstan and parts. This is for a serious player who seems > committed to the instrument. We already talked about putting the money > toward something new and different. > > > thanks, > > > Dennis Johnson >
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