Bechstein action

[Bill]

>What is different about the wippen?
>
>Is it a sticker/rockerarm system. These aren't so bad once you get the hang
>of 'em. The ones I have encountered display low friction, maybe from the lack
>of the capstan to cushion rubbing.


Jon,
Yes, it is.  My intent was to either recondition them or, if available,
replace with that type of whippen.........which I realize nobody makes as a
stock part at least.   As far as retrofitting with modern whippens, I'm
aware of the time & labor involved and was trying to avoid that.  It looks
like I will recondition the old whippens.   Thanks for the input.  It's
always good to hear from those who've been there.

Bill






>At 01:34 PM 12/30/99 +0000, you wrote:
>>>Dear list,
>>>I've got an old Bechstein grand (1885) that I'm preparing an estimate on.
>>>The piano has had some very sloppy work done in the past and the action is
>>>bad shape.  I will put new shanks on it but the whippens(original) need
>>>either replacement or thorough reconditioning.   My question, to those who
>>>have dealt with these older german pianos, is if this type of whippen is
>>>available.  Perhaps those who have rebuilt bechsteins of this vintage can
>>>tell me what you did.
>>>
>>>Regards,
>>>Bill Jeffreys
>>>Denton Piano
>>>Denton, TX
>
>What is different about the wippen?
>
>Is it a sticker/rockerarm system. These aren't so bad once you get the hang
>of 'em. The ones I have encountered display low friction, maybe from the lack
>of the capstan to cushion rubbing.
>
>If you opt of new parts, you can't be just a new parts installer. There are
>geometry
>issues to deal with. Improperly installed, the action will be a grave
>disappointment.
>
>All shanks are not equal, there are leverage issues which you need to be aware
>of
>for proper selection. You may even want to alter the leverage from the
>original
>because of newer, heavier hammers.
>
>This is another function of the Renner USA Parts Kit.
>Parts comparison/experimentation is paramount in selection.
>
>Unless the wippens are beyond repair (which includes cost-effectiveness)
>I would keep them. Consider the repetition springs to be fatigued, replace
>them.
>graphite and burnish jack and cradle, repin centers if necessary.
>However on new parts, located and drill for capstan, install proper heel on
>the
>universal wippen unless a stock wip fits, the same flange screw holes can be
>used.
>
>Modernization has its advantages, you can tell I'm on the fence  :-)
>
>Also you can tell I'm stalling because I have 5 pianos to tune today during
>this
>vacation period, four tomorrow and they're all done; whew.
>
>I can't think of anything else so I'd better get to work, wish me luck,
>
>Regards,
>
>Jon Page
>
>PS  anything to drag it out.   :-)  oh yeah,   Happy New
>Year/Century/Millennium/Thursday . . .
>
>sigh