<div dir="ltr">I've replaced a few strings in my short time in the biz and I've done it three ways... coiling on a dummy pin, using one of those expensive gadgets, and on the real pin without the expensive gadget. I find the easiest and best results from using the dummy pin. Paul Bruesch Stillwater, MN <div class="gmail_quote">On Thu, Jul 24, 2008 at 11:59 PM, Israel Stein <<a href="mailto:custos3@comcast.net">custos3@comcast.net</a>> wrote: <blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="border-left: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); margin: 0pt 0pt 0pt 0.8ex; padding-left: 1ex;"> At 03:27 PM 7/24/2008, avid Ilvedson wrote: <blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="border-left: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); margin: 0pt 0pt 0pt 0.8ex; padding-left: 1ex;"> The dummy pin and pre-coiling  is the way to go, so now is the time to start practicing.   The RPT test's preferred method is pre-coiling, I believe. David Ilvedson, RPT Pacifica, CA 94044 </blockquote> There are no "preferred" methods on the RPT exam. One is free to use whichever method or methods one is fluent in and comfortable with. Results are scored, not methods. That said, I would recommend that novices take seriously the recommendations of experienced technicians with regard to the most efficient and reliable methods. Israel Stein </blockquote></div> </div>