Universal bass string replacement

[Clyde Hollinger]

Benny,

I use the "Universal Bass String and Tuning Pin Gauge" from Schaff, catalog
#344, page 59, $1.44.  I have never taken into account the core size.  I measure
the old string and then match the sizes by the gauge.

I have not always been happy with the outcome and am beginning to shy away from
using universal strings except in a true emergency or if the piano is so
decrepit anyway that the cheapest way is the best way.  I am trying splices
oftener.  I have never checked the diameter of the universal string with the
gauge, an oversight on my part that may be why some strings sound pretty
terrible.  It never occurred to me that I need to check the replacement string's
diameter, not just rely on the size number.

Regards,
Clyde

"Benny L. Tucker" wrote:

> Hi folks,
>     I've replaced many treble strings during my short piano tech career, but
> today I was fortunate enough to break a bass string while tuning a customers
> piano.
>     I've had a whole set of universals in my truck since I started tuning
> outside of the plant, but until now I've been lucky enough to not need them.
> I usually splice a new leader if at all possible, but this one broke at the
> agraff.
>     What I'm having trouble with is the mic measurements of the old string.
> The core wire comes out to a size 9, but with the copper windings diameter,
> I could not get a good reading. On different parts of the windings I could
> get anywhere from .078 to .085, depending on where I measured at.
>     Any help on measuring/installing this universal string would be most
> appreciated. The piano is a Story & Clark Church piano, in fair shape at
> best. Other than that I would probably order a custom string. The Church is
> a very small Church with a very low budget, we're trying to get by as
> economical as possible.