I've replaced perhaps a half-dozen agraffes. All but one were straight forward, ie no drilling was required. Carve a slot into the top of the post left in the plate with a sharp screwdriver blade. Take your time and carve a deep slot that will fit the screwdriver you'll be using to turn it out. You can use a two-pronged tool made by modifying a screwdriver, but beware drilling or punching the stud in any way that could have a wedging effect and make it tighter. If you've ever seen damaged threads caused by a previous technician's errant drill bit, you might be less enthusiastic about drill bits and EZ-outs. I was called out on a S&S 'M' where the previous tooner had attempted to use epoxy to repair the damaged threads! No luck. The technique that Jim Coleman describes is one you should be prepared for even though you will probably never have to use it. The plate insert from Steinway is nothing more than a short 3/8" bolt drilled and tapped to accept the new agraffe. You will have to drill and tap the plate to accept the insert - dead perfect 90 degrees, so bring a couple of small machinist squares. A magnet covered with a thin cloth picks up the filings. Feed the bolt up from the bottom, twist in the agraffe, adjust for height, and cut off the bottom of the bolt with a hack saw. Carl Root, RPT
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