<HTML>In a message dated 3/30/2002 8:32:27 PM Pacific Standard Time, HazenBannister@cs.com writes: <BLOCKQUOTE TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px">Subj:Plate removal Date:3/30/2002 8:32:27 PM Pacific Standard Time From:<A HREF="mailto:HazenBannister@cs.com">HazenBannister@cs.com</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             Hazen</BLOCKQUOTE>     I use a double reduced electric hoist from Harbor freight($89.00) along with their orange 5 dollar adjustable tiedowns that allow precise leveling of the plate. Sometimes the plate needs to be canted towards (usually) the bass and down a bit so as to slip that corner in under a music desk slide flange on stwys at least.    We are usually  have all the major belly work including bearing done before the piano goes to finish. We finish with plate removed. We finish the board and the case then slip the plate in hopefully only one last time. I protect the rim with 10 mil  mylar or thin card board to prevent damageto the rim.  A chain hoist or geared down  electric hoist is perfect for the slow and careful  plate reentry. Sometimes slight damage is unavoidable but it's usually easily touched. Hope that helps >>>>>>>>>>>>>>Dale Erwin>>>>>>>>>>. <BLOCKQUOTE TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px"> Hi list, I wonder what is the best way,not only to remove a plate (in a grand), but to put it back in, in a finished cabinet,and finished plate,safely.I have a chainfall,and usually hook the wide moving straps around it,but it never comes out level. Thanks, Hazen Bannister </BLOCKQUOTE> </HTML>