<HTML>In a message dated 3/21/2002 12:19:05 PM P= acific Standard Time, nhunt@optonline.net writes: <BLOCKQUOTE TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT= : 5px; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px">Subj:Re: Sohmer Date:3/21/2002 12:19:05 PM Pacific Standard Time From:<A HREF="mailto:nhunt@optonline.net">nhunt@optonline.net</A> Reply-to:<A HREF="mailto:pianotech@ptg.org">pianotech@ptg.org</A> To:<A HREF="mailto:pianotech@ptg.org">pianotech@ptg.org</A> Sent from the Internet Hi Newton</BLOCKQUOTE>   &nbs= p;   The problem I have with the first method is that it doesn't t= ake into account the error that will be  read because of the almost alw= ays tapered  ( diaphramized) soundboard top. I.E. Masons,stwy and many = others. It's possible to get a positive reading even on a flat board.        The string is of course, as you say, a = better way but even then we can only measure residual crown. Meaning what's = left over after the crown has been squashed down by new strings and there be= aring force providing there is any left to start with. Any way you go it can= be a sticky wicket. >>>>>>best>Dale Erwin>>>>>><FO= NT COLOR="#000000" style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" SIZE=2 FAMILY= ="SANSSERIF" FACE="Arial" LANG="0"> <BLOCKQUOTE TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT= : 5px; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px"> One way to measure crown from the top side is to use a long stick, two looong screws and a dial indicator with a long plunger. Make it it to look like this        = |___|___|.  You calibrate by adjust one of the screws so you get a zero      Ö &nbsp= ;  reading on the dial using a really flat surface.  If you use additional screws you can check at many location well into the treble. The other easy way is to use a thread on the board between the longest ribs.  Simple but a way even I can understand.         Newton</BLOCKQUOTE> </HTML>