Renner key easing pliers

[ETomlinCF3@AOL.COM]

I have both types and even a third, Yamaha "CF" tool (my favorite).  I do 
like the Renner parallel type best of the others.  You can ease while not 
taking off the stack in some cases.  Be careful not to bind or elongate the 
balance hole when attempting this.  I find the biggest problem with these 
tools is over use and aggressiveness of zealous Techs.  Key easing sometimes 
is done and then redone only to find the problem was friction in another part 
of the action.  Whoops... The key is now too loose.  That is the problem I 
see.  I use the CF tool which is just a tapered piece of brass that I lightly 
push up inside the bushing hole and this does the trick most of the time.  I 
use a soldering iron with the proper brass bushing caul inserted in the iron 
with the heat down low to just iron or lay the felt on down, when the action 
is in the shop and the keys are being bushed.  All of these methods are valid 
when used properly.  Don't over ease and all will be fine.

Ed Tomlinson

<< 
 Question: I'm considering obtaining some fine key easing pliers from Renner 
 (the type designed to enable the tech. to ease the key WHILE IN THE PIANO).  
 I've seen the 2 types they make, but I'd appreciate having other opinions 
 from those of you who use both or one of the two.  One type is the tapered 2 
 jaws parallel pliers (in the original Renner cat. # 1616), the other type is 
 Not parallel 2 jaws with a "tongue/swivel" thing in the middle. # 1617.      
 Any thoughts/recommendations will be mostly appreciated.
 -Dan Amihud  RPT >>