A pocket hole drill recesses the head and bores for the shank into the rib. A #6 x 5/8 screw just places the point thru the board. I plan on getting 1/2" to try or make a small punching to act as a washer. A pallet knife slipped between the rib and board stops the bit from entering the board.
I've also, just bored for the shank and a bit into the rib and screwed the board to the rib. Uprights just get the screw head but grand get a small fender washer with a bushing cloth punching underneath. I had one vibrate loose after a few years, that was a fun buzz to find but a quick twist to fix.
I get some pocket hole screws from McFeely's and others from a local construction supply store. I prefer square drive, I wish everyone used them as an industry standard.
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Regards,
Jon Page
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Original Message:
Sent: 11-24-2017 16:11
From: Karl Roeder
Subject: Ultimate Soundboard Screw
Not that I would ever consider this sort of repair (wink,wink) but when errr I meant if I ever did a steel sheet metal screw with a tight washer from the top of the panel worked I mean would have worked pretty well. A little bit of silicone or latex caulk might keep the washer/screw/panel contact point from buzzing. Or it might have done if I were ever to do such a thing.
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Karl Roeder
Pompano Beach FL
Original Message:
Sent: 11-24-2017 15:30
From: Chris Chernobieff
Subject: Ultimate Soundboard Screw
Larry,
Wouldn't it be better to go through the panel into the rib? More Meat For The Screw To grab and thus a stronger clamping?
Original Message------
I like the responses on this one so far. I've used standard wood screws, flat head phillips with a counter sunk underside. Predrilling the rib to just the soundboard surface is critical if you want an effective job. From there I let the screw find it's way into the soundboard. Sheet rock screws are OK but they have to be installed by hand so as to not strip out the part that pulls the soundboard up tight against the rib. I've never had one break in this application ..... given the rib is predrilled.
I'll give a close and critical look at pocket screws next time in HD or Lowes. If they self-drill that shortens up the timing of this job immensely.
When done properly I've seen a tubby sounding piano come to life .... making me look like the neighborhood hero ..... at least for a few minutes anyway.
========= DISCLAIMER SECTION ===================
FWIW, this thread is only a small snapshot of a job that has it's failings if not done right.
FWIW, this job is to extend the quality of sound on aging soundboards that have seen their proper usefulness pass.