"New" old uprights

[JIMRPT@AOL.COM]

In a message dated 5/03/2000 10:55:26 AM, David P. wrote:

<<This is but one of my concerns about "rebuilding" old uprights.
dave>>

Dave;
 Very valid point of concern.  Unfortunately the same thing holds true with 
grands. It is very, very easy to get into a situation where the cost of 
repair/rebuild/remanufacture exceeds to worth of any instrument when speaking 
to intrinsic/actual/perceived value.  Emotional value... we as a trade have 
no business placing a price tag on and thus does not enter into this 
discussion for all intents and purposes.
  The only thing that I know to do is to be pointedly honest with cost of 
repair vs estimated value after completion. In quite a few instances this has 
resulted in quotes in the 8-10 thou range where the expected value of the 
instrument was in the 4 to 5 thou range. It is oftentimes difficult to judge 
a estimated value on thingees like uprights or Butterfly grands, etc..... so 
in those instances I will use a comparable modern product as closely as 
possible.
  In summation I believe the economic decisions belong to the customer and 
the technical decisions belong to us as technicians. If after our best, 
considered, honest, opinion and guidance a customer decides to have the work 
done..... well we need not worry about the future viability of their 
decision. If we, as a group, are selective in what we can and can't, will and 
won't, should and shouldn't do, or promise, we can sleep well and look 
forward to the next challenge whatever the outcome of the last one eventually 
is.  After all we may get lucky and find a Starr grand with no plate 
fasteners!! :-)
Jim Bryant (FL)