[CAUT] Irwin bit

[A440A at aol.com]

> I usually use a forstner bit for retro-fitting pitmans in Steinways and 
other grands.  

>  Problem is starting the forstner bit into the keybed.   I came across an 
Irwin 1&1/8" 

> forstner type bit except with a threaded starter tip, about 3/4" long.   As 
I think about 

> it now I suppose the starter tip wouldn't be of much help since it is going 
into the 

> pitman hole...anyone used this bit for this repair? >>

Greetings, 
     When I drill out the pitman hole, I use a small bit of 1/4" maple, about 
four inches long and 1 1/2" wide.  This piece of maple has two small holes in 
it about 2 inches apart, and a 1" hole that I bored on the drill press.  All 
you have to do is center the big hole over the pitman hole and run two 1/2" 
drywall screws in the small holes, right into the bottom of the piano.  This is 
a guide for the Forstner.  
      Drilling through the big hole, a 1" Forstner bit will begin centered 
and drill cleanly through the keybed.  I alway put a piece of scrap wedged 
against the hole from the top to preven tear-out when that Forstner comes through.  

regards,

Ed Foote RPT 
http://www.uk-piano.org/edfoote/index.html
www.uk-piano.org/edfoote/well_tempered_piano.html