Mystery Noise

[Newton Hunt]

Hi, David,

Based upon your evaluation the rattle is most likely coming from the
worn and hard bushing.  The rattle is caused by the wire being flung
about in the enlarged hole by the leverage of the damper head.

There are two solutions.

	Using wire benmding plier put a very small, and I mean VERY small bend
in the wire so that it rides one side of the hole or the other.  Which
side depends on how the damper returns to the rest position.  This bend
should be right above the damper top flange.  If the damper seats itself
easilly and it will move up and down freely and the rattle is gone then
you are set well.  Just a few seconds after removing the action.
	You can also rebush the hole without removing the rail.  It is
difficult, but not impossible.
	Take some different thickness of keybushings that are at least twice
the width of normal bushing stripe and be prepared to tear or cut to the
proper width.
	Using a sharp and thin awl or similar tool try to remove the old
bushing intact by insterting the tool between the bushing and the wood
all around until it is free from the glue then push it out.  Unrollit
and measure its width and approximate thickness.
	Cut a strip of material several inches long of the proper width and
thickness and cut a long thin taper at one end.  Insert the tapered end
into the hole from the bottom side and gently grasp with a pair of
pliers.  Pull until enough felt has been brought through so you will
need to trim abnout 1/8" from the bottom.  Cut the top flush with the
rail. Insert your awl into the hole and work it around and around utnil
the ends of the felt have integrated themselves into a continuous circle
of felt.
	Gently insert damper wire and time the damper.
	Check to see that the wire is secure attached to the block so it will
not vibrate and cause a rattle.

		Newton
		nhunt@jagat.com