<html> Hi Terry,                For the most stable job. Major leveling. I use the split punchings. After completion I remove the stack and replace them with uncut punchings.  Save the split punchings for the next job.  You may find you have to install a few thin onion skin split punchings, but this is just a small refinement. It is important to press firmly down on all the key buttons, to make sure all keys are firmly seated for best results, then recheck your work. Regards Roger At 09:05 AM 2/21/02 -0500, you wrote: >Wim. I have never (I'm ashamed to admit) used this technique. But, yes it would take a few minutes to cut the punchings, but it will also save you from removing the stack. Further, it will provide the consistency of the actual action providing the weight on the back of the key - potentially resulting in a more accurate key leveling. Am I right with these statements? Do you have some technique to put an uncut punching on a grand center rail pin without removing the stack? > >Terry Farrell >  >----- Original Message ----- >From: <Wimblees@AOL.COM> >To: <pianotech@ptg.org> >Sent: Thursday, February 21, 2002 8:45 AM >Subject: Re: getting punch(y)ings > > >> In a message dated 2/21/02 2:43:57 AM !!!First Boot!!!, Bigeartb@AOL.COM >> writes: >> >> >> > But while we're on this subject, some technicians evidently level >> > the keys by cutting a "V" in the punchings so they can insert them without >> > removing the keys. Do you know anything about this technique? Is is >> > acceptable practice? >> > >> > Tommy Black >> > Decatur, Ala. >> > >> >> Tommy >> >> This is a good method if you need to level one or two keys with the action >> still in the piano. But in my opinion, it would take longer to cut V's in >> punchings than it is to lift the key and wool punching. >> >> Wim >> > </html>