Kit: A real "overhaul" of this piano will require removing the plate - especially if there are serious pinblock or soundboard problems; some early Steinway uprights require removal of the cabinet sides to get the plate out. Have a good look (use a good light) at the tubular rails - the brass may be splitting. This will require replacement and resoldering (can be sent out to do if needed - someone is advertising this in the Journal, I think). The new action parts available are excellent, as Roger points out; make sure you match the wippen up well. A "museum" restoration would save all parts and rebush, repin, rebuckskin and refelt as needed (someone was also talking about steaming out the dent in the wippen cushion - never done that, but it sounds interesting). The birdseyes can be resized/gluesized for a smaller centerpin in rebushing, if necessary. A good resource is Wally Brooks, who has the parts, I believe, and also has rebuilt many of these. Some of the old uprights have sostenutos which are a big headache until you learn to efficiently remove the hammer rest rail and sostenuto mechanism for regulating the action (then they are a small headache). Good luck! Bill Shull University of Redlands, La Sierra University Loma Linda, CA In a message dated 99-07-31 20:50:02 EDT, you write: << List: I need a technician in or near Albert Lea, Minnesota to look at a piano that the owner is trying to sell me. Names, email addresses and/or phone numbers would be helpful. The owner tells me it is a 113 year old 52" Steinway upright. He tells me the action needs an overhaul. As a technician I've "overhauled" a number of pianos but have no experience with a Steinway of this vintage. Anything I should know that might influence my purchase of this piano? Thanks for your help Kit Cleworth >>
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