Vertical damper springs

[Greg Newell]

Graeme,
    I don't suppose that you would have a digital picture of this turnbuckle
gizmo would you? My feeble brain just can't picture it.

Greg

Graeme Harvey wrote:

> Richard,
>
> There is a way of quickly and accurately adjusting spoons on the bench by
> using a bolt through the left action bracket hole (hangs out over the lift
> rod) which allows a small turnbuckle to connect from the bolt down to the
> damper lift rod at the same point the pedal dowel connects to.
> (As opposed to simply wedging the liftrod out from the action rail which
> causes distortion to the rail and consequently upsets the regulation)
>
> First adjust the damper lift timing via the pedal so all lift
> simultaneously.
> Play a few notes and mark a few where the spoon lift is correct. If none are
> then adjust a few to use as samples.
> Place action on bench and fit bolt and turnbuckle. Adjust turnbuckle to
> simulate the pedal dowel lifting the dampers until the marked dampers AND
> their respective hammers both start moving simultaneously.
> Timing of spoon lift should be similar for each of the marked samples.
> Then simply start at one end of the action holding each wippen while
> adjusting the spoon as you go.
> I use a regulation tool, 6mm rod with a slot in one end. The action can be
> either way around, whatever way works for you.
>
> Above procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes and yeilds very consistent and
> repeatable results.
> For obvious reasons the lift timing must be spot on and  lift rail bushings
> etc in good condition.
>
>  It is also described in Reblitz's Piano Servicing book in the appendix
> (though the method he uses to prop up the lift rail is different  the
> general procedure is the same)
>
> I also followed this tread on spring tension and agree that it is important
> and impacts directly on the touch.
> Try adjusting a spring one way or the other then play over it a few times
> and you will feel the effect it has.
> Same can be said for spoons too.
>
> Cheers,
> Graeme Harvey
> New Plymouth NZ
>
> Richard Brekne wrote.......
>
> >In anycase.. I agree that many seem (myself included) to shrug
> >away from regulateing damper spoons.. probably cus the darn
> >things are hidden from view when doing this, as is usual (and
> >neccessary ??) with the action installed. I questioned neccessary
> >because I seem to remember seeing something about a jig and
> >accompanying procedure for doing this job on the bench... anyone
> >remember anything about this.. or know about it ??

--
Greg Newell
Greg's Piano Forté
19270 Harlon Ave.
Lakewood, Ohio 44107
216-226-3791
mailto:gnewell@ameritech.net