[pianotech] WD-40

[Scott Jackson]

When I have a need for such a product, then I use Ballistol. It seems to give the greatest benefit with least harmful side effects. My main uses are string bearing points, and for cleaning key-frame pins. I will use it for centre-pins of "last resort" pianos where anything would be an improvement.
http://www.ballistol.ca/Ballistol/Pages/Ballistol_Index01.htm
http://www.ballistoluk.co.uk/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ballistol

In my mind the downside of WD-40 is finding a job that it actually works for. If used on for flange centres, it just "gums up" later, making the problem worse. If used for pedal rods or bushings, they'll be squeaking again before you make it out the door.

Scott J
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Ryan Sowers 
  To: pianotech at ptg.org 
  Sent: Friday, April 24, 2009 1:12 PM
  Subject: Re: [pianotech] WD-40


  I've always heard it's a no-no on pianos but I haven't heard exactly why. I know some technicians who use it. What is the main downside of it. 

  Another lubricant I've seen other techs use is LPS-1. An old mentor of mine used it for a lot of piano related lubricating so I used it for a while when i was starting out. However, I noticed that most high level technicians were not using it so I stopped. Anyone have thought on LPS-1?

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