Broken string Procedures

[John M. Formsma]

Phil,

First, I always try to splice when I can. But on a new wire I usually leave
it open, and leave it sharp 2-3 beats. This is after all the squeezing,
stretching, and pounding that is appropriate. (Where is that magic place
where it will settle perfectly in tune - is there such a place?? Generally,
the customer is OK with me coming back when I'm in the area since I drive a
good distance to most locations.

I usually try to get back within 2-3 weeks, and I don't normally charge
anything unless I'm making a special trip. I figure a little extra on the
front end which helps to cover time on the return trip.

I don't know what is the optimum time to wait. Sometimes I'll tell the
customer to call me when it starts sounding really bad. That helps remind
me, and keeps them listening.

Muting is a good idea, and I've done it in pianos when I will not be
returning to that area for quite some time.

JF

>-----Original Message-----
>From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On
>Behalf Of pjr
>Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2006 7:21 PM
>To: Pianotech List
>Subject: Broken string Procedures
>
>What do most people do after replacing a broken wire in the middle
>octaves of a home piano? Do you stretch it and leave it be?  Do you tune
>it sharp or on pitch?  Do you leave it muted or open?  Do you schedule a
>return visit to bring up the string?  If so, how soon?  Is a week too
>soon?  A month, or more?  Is one return visit enough?  If so, what
>percentage of your tuning fee do you charge for the return visit?  I
>would appreciate your ideas.
>
>Phil Ryan
>Miami Beach