Caster repair

[ed440 at mindspring.com]

Try a good sharp gouge, about 5/8" wide.  It does not cut faster than you can think, takes maybe 5 minutes per caster.
Ed Sutton

>
>The main problem then, is that the hole is not large enough to allow free rotation, so you have to router a larger cavity. I have tried to figure out a better method, rather than a router. I tried a power file. I was thinking on a Roto-Zip or hole saw, but haven't tried them yet.
>
>What is the preferred method of enlarging the cavity???
>
>I would think a piano tilter is the way to go.
>
> It has been one of the best investments, that I made.
>They are great for restringing, application of C/A, repair of pedals, and bottom boards.
>
>John M. Ross
>Windsor, Nova Scotia, Canada
>jrpiano at win.eastlink.ca
>----- Original Message -----
>From: Michelle Smith
>To: 'Pianotech List'
>Sent: Thursday, September 28, 2006 5:35 PM
>Subject: Caster repair
>
>
>Hi all.  Newbie here with her first caster repair.  I’m having a hard time finding good information in the books.  The piano is a 1908 Steinway.  The front two wheels are in tact.  The back right still has the socket but is missing the wheel.  The back left just has the hole.  Questions:
>
>Do I have to use the Steinway style casters that are listed in the Schaff catalog or would something less expensive work as well?
>Do I need the wood caster bushings to take up space in the hole?
>What’s the procedure for removal and replacement?
>Is it imperative that I borrow a piano truck from a friend or can a couple of strong men lay the piano back?
>What else have I not thought about yet?
>
>Thanks for your help and patience!  =)
>
>Michelle Smith
>Bastrop, Texas
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>