Baldwin caster socket question

[Joseph Garrett]

All,
I've been using the Darnell double wheel casters with Cast Aluminum Sockets,
for many years. Alas, these were available from APSCO! I truly hope that
Schaff, (now to be known as SchaffAPSCO <G>), will continue the many items
that they got from APSCO! These Casters are definately Industrial Strength!
They come in Hardwood or Carpet, so the application is variable. Once I have
installed these casters, the basic problems of heavy use is no longer a
problem. As a matter of fact, the efficiency of these casters can be a bit
too much, some times, as they roll so easy, that sometimes you have to chase
the piano as you play it! <G>
In order to install these casters, I use an 15/16" spade bit to make the
wood socket match the cast aluminum socket, (most wood sockets are smaller).
This will make the socket a "press fit", that is desireable. The snugger the
fit, the better, as it doesn't allow the socket to move around, even when
the screws are somewhat loose!
Once you get the sockets installed, it is necessary to "drive" the caster
stems into the sockets. I have a designated screwdriver that has a large
steel screw inserted through the handle, (from the top of the handle, down
to the buried end of the screwdriver blade). I place the screwdriver blade
into the "swaged" stem base, center the caster stem in the socket and drive
the stem into the socket with my "BFH"! <G>
As an aside, I have had very poor luck with the "cheaper" sets of casters,
that are readily available. Although the Darnell Casters are expensive, they
are very sturdy, safe and work the best.
Hope this helps.
Best Regards,
Joe Garrett, RPT, (Oregon)

Been There, Didn't Like It, So I'm Here To Stay! [G}