<HTML>In a message dated 4/19/03 11:43:30 AM Central Dayligh= t Time, kchaplin@optonline.net writes: <BLOCKQUOTE TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT= : 5px; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px">Dear Sirs: On the subjects of removing Steinway grand (M) pinblocks whole, is there are= "regular" location of dowels which fit into the stretcher/pinblock? Also, a= ny advice you would offer on the easiest way to remove such a block without = resorting to "cutting it out" would be much appreciated. Thanks so much! Sincerely, KC  </BLOCKQUOTE> The middle one is pretty close to the middle of the stretcher, but just to t= he left, (usually), of the lock. Then there are two (one on each side), abou= t midway between the middle and the sides. And then there are two (one on ea= ch side), about three inches from the rim. The quickest way to find them is = to take a chisel and drive it between the pin block and stretcher. This will= sperate the pin block form the stretcher enough for you to see the dowels. = I then take the blade of a hacksaw, and cut them. Drill out the dowels into = the inner rims, and pry the pin block loose from the inner rim by driving th= e chisel underneath the pin block where it meets the rim, and the block is o= ut. Very easy. (takes about 5 or 10 minutes). Wim </HTML>