Knuckles/Graphite

[Dave Nereson]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Jack Houweling" <jackhouweling@dccnet.com>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2003 10:43 PM
Subject: Fw: Knuckles/Graphite


Hello
   I would like to clean knuckles by removing old graphite . I read in the Reblitz the way to clean is to use a solution of eight parts naphtha to one part mineral oil in a hypo-oiler. Is this technique still used ? 
Thanks 
Jack Houweling

    I wouldn't think you'd want any oil on the knuckle leather.  Usually the naphtha/mineral oil mixture is used for lubricating center pins that are a bit sluggish.
    To clean the knuckles of old graphite or graphite grease, I've used Thoro or Energine (dry cleaning fluid) and a suede brush.  There are probably other solvents that work also, but I don't have experience with them on knuckles.  
    I apply the cleaning fluid with a syringe and brush as much as possible off with the suede brush, then let them dry.  Afterwards, apply talc or powdered Teflon and rub into the knuckles with a spare treble hammer.
    --David Nereson, RPT