[pianotech] CA Glue and Tuning Pins

[Mike Spalding]

Lee,

1.  Enduring, maybe not permanent.  And renewable - if any pins loosen 
up later, you can re-apply the CA.
2.  Schedule the work for the low humidity season.  Tip the piano.  
Vacuum or otherwise clean the tuning pin field as thoroughly as you can, 
because any dirt you leave will likely be enshrined under a clear-coat 
of CA.  Mask or shroud anything you don't want to get CA on, including 
the floor.  Do what you've got to do to ensure that the CA gets to the 
pinblock (i.e. past the bushings).  If the holes have enlarged to the 
extent that there is a gap, just run the CA into the gap.  If no gap, 
drill a hole down through each bushing.  This was discussed in recent 
posts, add about a half-hour for the drilling.  A variety of methods for 
transporting the CA to the point of application have been discussed here 
as well:  run it down a straw, use a syringe, use the very fine tip 
extensions available at hobby shops, run it down a length of wire.  Wear 
a respirator and safety glasses, some use a small fan to blow fresh air 
towards their face and carry away the CA fumes.  You can tune 
immediately in most cases, although I suspect the results are better if 
you let it cure completely first.
3.  I base my price on 2 hours (2.5 if drilling bushings) plus materials 
and supplies.  Some of that time is for putting together the kit in my 
shop, and cleaning it and putting it away afterwards.

hope this helps

Mike

On 7/5/2011 2:17 PM, lee innocent wrote:
> Hello All,
> I am considering CAing an upright piano, I have never tried this 
> method before, always repinned.
> What I would like to know is:
> 1.  Is this a permanent fix for loose pins
> 2.  What is the best method for a thorough job
> 3.  How much time should I allocate
> Thanks in advance
> Lee