long term grand storage

[A440A at aol.com]

Joel writes:

<<  My situation is a grand that is
new, but has been in storage 2 years and will likely remain there
another 3 or more.
I'm wondering what happens to the felt bushings?<< 

       The moment arm between the two sides of the hammer flanges is not only 
shorter,(hence, providing gravity with more leverage), than from the pin to 
the knuckle,(which is supporting the weight of the hammer and shank), but the 
entire weight is bearing on the two bushings.  Normally, the weight is bearing 
on the bushings and the jack.  This would seem to increase the distortion of 
the flange bushings.  However,  I took care of several road pianos that 
traveled many thousands of miles, in a semi trailer, on their sides, and I never 
found any evidence that the bushings were compromised.  Surprised me!  
 
>>Is there any relief  for the weight of the hammer on the bushings?>>

        You could set the piano up,(or take the action out), and clamp a 
padded rail above and below the hammers, fastening it securely to the action 
brackets.  this would keep the weight from being applied to the bushings.  I don't 
know if it would make any difference, though. 
 
Ed Foote RPT 
http://www.uk-piano.org/edfoote/index.html
www.uk-piano.org/edfoote/well_tempered_piano.html
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