Screw Stringer question

[BSimon999@AOL.COM]

Next week I am going to see a Mason and Hamlin old upright screwstringer with 
"a couple of missing wires."

I would appreciate any tips on putting some new strings on, as I have not 
even seen one of these in 10 years. The moving string attachment always 
looked tricky to me, and if there is a standard measurement  (1.5 inches?) 
for the amount  of wire needed to tie it on,  I would appreciate knowing what 
it is. I always thought that with great effort I could restring that little 
paddle, but then find I made it too short or long.  I have, however, never 
had to put a string into one yet. Any hints?

IF the tuning nuts are frozen, does one use a tiny touch of oil on them?

Thanks for any help,

Bill Simon
Phoenix