<html> Hi Mike,               This will work, I have done dozens of them. Drench the hammers in acetone, until  it is running down the molding. Wait about 15min for the acetone to really work, and make the hardener plastic.  Flush and drench the hammers a few times.  Deep needle the shoulders, between 10-11 o'clock, while the hammers are still wet, they will go in with ease.  I usually do 3 insertions with 3 needles for bass and tenor, 2 insertions first treble, and 1 for the top. Wait an hour or so before playing, and checking your work. Flush some more if needed.  Wait a couple of days to do the fine voicing.  The hardener seems to take a a few weeks to fully harden and stabilize. Depends a lot on humidity conditions in your area. This is not a job you can rush, for a quality lasting job.  A good light hammer filing, and fitting will be also needed after the drenching. Regards Roger t 07:54 AM 8/5/02 -0500, you wrote: <blockquote type=cite class=cite cite>I have tried 2 methods.  First I have used an electric tea kettle, giving each hammer about 1 second in the spout.  Secondly I have tried a damp cloth with a hammer iron.  I have tried both a couple of times, but the Baldwin hammers have not responded the way others have.  Keep in mind these are heavily laquered hammers that I find too difficult for needles. Mike Bratcher </blockquote> </html>