[pianotech] Replacing dampers on a Steinway Upright

[Encore Pianos]

I just noticed that Brooks, Ltd. Sells an upright damper kit (TVDK)  made by
Tokiwa (page 22 of catalog) that might be well suited to modernize old
upright damper systems.  I have not used it, but it is similar to what I
have used in the past, and would be worth the try.

 

Will Truitt

 

From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf
Of Joe DeFazio
Sent: Friday, February 11, 2011 2:51 PM
To: pianotech at ptg.org
Subject: Re: [pianotech] Replacing dampers on a Steinway Upright

 

From: "Encore Pianos" <encorepianos at metrocast.net>

Date: February 11, 2011 5:24:49 AM EST

 

You are welcome, Joe.  I measured the renner bass dampers yesterday - 57 mm
long.  Adequate for any 52 incher.  

 

Thanks.





The length of the first 2 or 3 tenor dampers is governed by the bass strings
at the bottom and the need to clear the hammer at the top.  

 

Yes, I do understand that.  I was a bit more interested in the length of the
dampers just above the break, where the crossing bass strings are no longer
an issue.  That's where we have an opportunity to change length, and where
there is most likely a point at which an increase in damper length becomes
counterproductive.  I would like to gain a clearer idea of where that point
lies.  I guess experimentation and measurement of well-functioning dampers
will be the way I can find my answer.





I also think that wooden blocks are in the tenor section as they add a bit
of mass, which aids in damping.  If memory serves me, you can get brass
barrels from Pianoforte supply, but they are expensive.

 

I hadn't thought about the mass of the damper block in uprights, but it
makes perfect sense.  I will look into the brass barrels, which I didn't
know existed.  

 

Since the weight sits on the action rail via the centerpin, the added weight
shouldn't affect touchweight (as it would in a grand damper head with the
sustain pedal not engaged), but it will add a slight inertial resistance as
the spoon starts to move the damper assembly.  I'd imagine that that would
be negligible as compared to the damper spring's force in resisting the
spoon.

 

I suspect that there are many techs like me out there who do action
rebuilding and parts replacement on grands at least ten times as often as on
uprights.  So, my skills and thinking are much more developed in the grand
area, and this is a good opportunity to give the upright a few more
dedicated neuron connections.

 

Thanks again,

 

Joe DeFazio

Pittsburgh

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