Pianotech

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs.

If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves. Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs.

I haven't received the truck yet but when it comes, I'll be placing the piano on its side to inspect all leg assemblies. I am going with the assumption that they will need taking apart and reglueing.

You might want to refer this to someone with experience and help them.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

Oh, I forgot to add: If the piano owner elects to have the six big guys carry the piano to the next room, tell the owner to double check to make sure their homeowners insurance policy is adequate to cover the injuries to the guy(s) and make sure it is paid up!

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

A way to check leg glue joints without removing the legs: Place a finger at the joint and shake the piano a bit. If you feel movement between the two sections, the glue joint has failed. I usually grip the joint between my thumb and any finger that reaches the span.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

Taking a closer look at the casters, they appear to be the type of socket which is screwed in place. In which case you'll need to tip the piano. If you, or someone you know has a Moon Dog Grand Piano Tilter, you can simply tip the piano onto the bass bottom edge. This will give access to the treble and rear leg casters without the need to remove these legs or set the piano on its side (unless the glue joints are bad too).

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:10
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

A way to check leg glue joints without removing the legs: Place a finger at the joint and shake the piano a bit. If you feel movement between the two sections, the glue joint has failed. I usually grip the joint between my thumb and any finger that reaches the span.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

I'm not trying to be disagreeable here but (though I do agree that a truck is the best way [though I've never seen a 6 legged truck])...

I think the owner needs to be authoritatively informed that (as has been alluded to) piano casters are NOT designed or intended for "moving" the piano (other than a few inches). And that what she wants to do is simply not realistically feasible (except with pros) and is otherwise downright dangerous .

That is my opinion and what I would tell a client asking me the same question.

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:17
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Taking a closer look at the casters, they appear to be the type of socket which is screwed in place. In which case you'll need to tip the piano. If you, or someone you know has a Moon Dog Grand Piano Tilter, you can simply tip the piano onto the bass bottom edge. This will give access to the treble and rear leg casters without the need to remove these legs or set the piano on its side (unless the glue joints are bad too).

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:10
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

A way to check leg glue joints without removing the legs: Place a finger at the joint and shake the piano a bit. If you feel movement between the two sections, the glue joint has failed. I usually grip the joint between my thumb and any finger that reaches the span.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 14:58
From: Peter Grey
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

I'm not trying to be disagreeable here but (though I do agree that a truck is the best way [though I've never seen a 6 legged truck])...

I think the owner needs to be authoritatively informed that (as has been alluded to) piano casters are NOT designed or intended for "moving" the piano (other than a few inches). And that what she wants to do is simply not realistically feasible (except with pros) and is otherwise downright dangerous .

That is my opinion and what I would tell a client asking me the same question.

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:17
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Taking a closer look at the casters, they appear to be the type of socket which is screwed in place. In which case you'll need to tip the piano. If you, or someone you know has a Moon Dog Grand Piano Tilter, you can simply tip the piano onto the bass bottom edge. This will give access to the treble and rear leg casters without the need to remove these legs or set the piano on its side (unless the glue joints are bad too).

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:10
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

A way to check leg glue joints without removing the legs: Place a finger at the joint and shake the piano a bit. If you feel movement between the two sections, the glue joint has failed. I usually grip the joint between my thumb and any finger that reaches the span.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

Jon wrote:
"Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed."

Please do post picture - I've not ever seen one. Thanks!!

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 15:23
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 14:58
From: Peter Grey
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

I'm not trying to be disagreeable here but (though I do agree that a truck is the best way [though I've never seen a 6 legged truck])...

I think the owner needs to be authoritatively informed that (as has been alluded to) piano casters are NOT designed or intended for "moving" the piano (other than a few inches). And that what she wants to do is simply not realistically feasible (except with pros) and is otherwise downright dangerous .

That is my opinion and what I would tell a client asking me the same question.

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:17
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Taking a closer look at the casters, they appear to be the type of socket which is screwed in place. In which case you'll need to tip the piano. If you, or someone you know has a Moon Dog Grand Piano Tilter, you can simply tip the piano onto the bass bottom edge. This will give access to the treble and rear leg casters without the need to remove these legs or set the piano on its side (unless the glue joints are bad too).

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:10
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

A way to check leg glue joints without removing the legs: Place a finger at the joint and shake the piano a bit. If you feel movement between the two sections, the glue joint has failed. I usually grip the joint between my thumb and any finger that reaches the span.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

In this situation, the client may be best served with a dolly. 

However, it is a bit of a broad (and false) generalization to state that casters are not made for moving pianos, or that pianos should not be moved on casters.

While most pianos come on small wheels with no bearings, there are indeed casters which are designed and suitable for moving even the largest pianos safely.

Spider dollies are largely unknown across Europe, where pianos that need to be moved regularly are fitted with proper stage casters. In fact, every brand of concert grand that I know of comes with large wheel casters. They have ball bearings which allow the piano to be moved easily and safely. Locking brakes prevent the piano from unwanted rolling.

A further advantage: The solid grounding to the floor has a positive effect on the touch on tone of the instrument, compared to sitting on the spider dolly which is in essence an industrial sized leaf spring.



------------------------------
Jurgen Goering
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-08-2018 07:24
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Jon wrote:
"Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed."

Please do post picture - I've not ever seen one. Thanks!!

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 15:23
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 14:58
From: Peter Grey
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

I'm not trying to be disagreeable here but (though I do agree that a truck is the best way [though I've never seen a 6 legged truck])...

I think the owner needs to be authoritatively informed that (as has been alluded to) piano casters are NOT designed or intended for "moving" the piano (other than a few inches). And that what she wants to do is simply not realistically feasible (except with pros) and is otherwise downright dangerous .

That is my opinion and what I would tell a client asking me the same question.

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:17
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Taking a closer look at the casters, they appear to be the type of socket which is screwed in place. In which case you'll need to tip the piano. If you, or someone you know has a Moon Dog Grand Piano Tilter, you can simply tip the piano onto the bass bottom edge. This will give access to the treble and rear leg casters without the need to remove these legs or set the piano on its side (unless the glue joints are bad too).

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:10
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

A way to check leg glue joints without removing the legs: Place a finger at the joint and shake the piano a bit. If you feel movement between the two sections, the glue joint has failed. I usually grip the joint between my thumb and any finger that reaches the span.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

Jurgen wrote:
"However, it is a bit of a broad (and false) generalization to state that casters are not made for moving pianos, or that pianos should not be moved on casters.

While most pianos come on small wheels with no bearings, there are indeed casters which are designed and suitable for moving even the largest pianos safely."

I knew someone would point that out!  ;-)   Whereas those large casters with bearings will indeed work much, much better than a small caster, and indeed they are likely quite adequate for most stages, they still rely on the structural strength of all three legs being up to par. In a home and many other facilities, there are often interruptions in a smooth level floor. Any time you push a piano across such an interruption, even with a large caster, you are at risk of snapping a leg off. The three-arm spider-type piano truck ties the three legs together and makes the entire unit much stronger.

For a concert on a stage, your point regarding improved sound is likely quite valid, as well as improved cosmetics. I don't think anyone things a piano truck is particularly attractive.

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-09-2018 02:30
From: Jurgen Goering
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

In this situation, the client may be best served with a dolly.

However, it is a bit of a broad (and false) generalization to state that casters are not made for moving pianos, or that pianos should not be moved on casters.

While most pianos come on small wheels with no bearings, there are indeed casters which are designed and suitable for moving even the largest pianos safely.

Spider dollies are largely unknown across Europe, where pianos that need to be moved regularly are fitted with proper stage casters. In fact, every brand of concert grand that I know of comes with large wheel casters. They have ball bearings which allow the piano to be moved easily and safely. Locking brakes prevent the piano from unwanted rolling.

A further advantage: The solid grounding to the floor has a positive effect on the touch on tone of the instrument, compared to sitting on the spider dolly which is in essence an industrial sized leaf spring.



------------------------------
Jurgen Goering

Original Message:
Sent: 04-08-2018 07:24
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Jon wrote:
"Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed."

Please do post picture - I've not ever seen one. Thanks!!

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 15:23
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 14:58
From: Peter Grey
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

I'm not trying to be disagreeable here but (though I do agree that a truck is the best way [though I've never seen a 6 legged truck])...

I think the owner needs to be authoritatively informed that (as has been alluded to) piano casters are NOT designed or intended for "moving" the piano (other than a few inches). And that what she wants to do is simply not realistically feasible (except with pros) and is otherwise downright dangerous .

That is my opinion and what I would tell a client asking me the same question.

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:17
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Taking a closer look at the casters, they appear to be the type of socket which is screwed in place. In which case you'll need to tip the piano. If you, or someone you know has a Moon Dog Grand Piano Tilter, you can simply tip the piano onto the bass bottom edge. This will give access to the treble and rear leg casters without the need to remove these legs or set the piano on its side (unless the glue joints are bad too).

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:10
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

A way to check leg glue joints without removing the legs: Place a finger at the joint and shake the piano a bit. If you feel movement between the two sections, the glue joint has failed. I usually grip the joint between my thumb and any finger that reaches the span.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

With a piano that old, the cost of installing a truck would no doubt be prohibitive.  Sometimes it's left to us to kindly discourage our customers from their first instincts by pointing out that, while doable, it doesn't always make sense economically.

It's also the case as Jon pointed out that you seldom see those double legs that are any condition to stand up to this kind of usage.  And the cost of knocking all three sets apart and regluing them would also probably break the bank.

However, assuming the legs are sturdy, or could be made that way without major expense, I think replacing the casters with good single wheeled ones with ball-bearing chases would make sense, with one proviso:  you'd have to modify the door sill between the rooms to make it flat.  Perhaps this middle ground would offer a solution to her problem.


------------------------------
Cecil Snyder
Torrance CA
310-542-7108
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-09-2018 06:14
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Jurgen wrote:
"However, it is a bit of a broad (and false) generalization to state that casters are not made for moving pianos, or that pianos should not be moved on casters.

While most pianos come on small wheels with no bearings, there are indeed casters which are designed and suitable for moving even the largest pianos safely."

I knew someone would point that out!  ;-)   Whereas those large casters with bearings will indeed work much, much better than a small caster, and indeed they are likely quite adequate for most stages, they still rely on the structural strength of all three legs being up to par. In a home and many other facilities, there are often interruptions in a smooth level floor. Any time you push a piano across such an interruption, even with a large caster, you are at risk of snapping a leg off. The three-arm spider-type piano truck ties the three legs together and makes the entire unit much stronger.

For a concert on a stage, your point regarding improved sound is likely quite valid, as well as improved cosmetics. I don't think anyone things a piano truck is particularly attractive.

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-09-2018 02:30
From: Jurgen Goering
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

In this situation, the client may be best served with a dolly.

However, it is a bit of a broad (and false) generalization to state that casters are not made for moving pianos, or that pianos should not be moved on casters.

While most pianos come on small wheels with no bearings, there are indeed casters which are designed and suitable for moving even the largest pianos safely.

Spider dollies are largely unknown across Europe, where pianos that need to be moved regularly are fitted with proper stage casters. In fact, every brand of concert grand that I know of comes with large wheel casters. They have ball bearings which allow the piano to be moved easily and safely. Locking brakes prevent the piano from unwanted rolling.

A further advantage: The solid grounding to the floor has a positive effect on the touch on tone of the instrument, compared to sitting on the spider dolly which is in essence an industrial sized leaf spring.



------------------------------
Jurgen Goering

Original Message:
Sent: 04-08-2018 07:24
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Jon wrote:
"Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed."

Please do post picture - I've not ever seen one. Thanks!!

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 15:23
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 14:58
From: Peter Grey
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

I'm not trying to be disagreeable here but (though I do agree that a truck is the best way [though I've never seen a 6 legged truck])...

I think the owner needs to be authoritatively informed that (as has been alluded to) piano casters are NOT designed or intended for "moving" the piano (other than a few inches). And that what she wants to do is simply not realistically feasible (except with pros) and is otherwise downright dangerous .

That is my opinion and what I would tell a client asking me the same question.

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:17
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Taking a closer look at the casters, they appear to be the type of socket which is screwed in place. In which case you'll need to tip the piano. If you, or someone you know has a Moon Dog Grand Piano Tilter, you can simply tip the piano onto the bass bottom edge. This will give access to the treble and rear leg casters without the need to remove these legs or set the piano on its side (unless the glue joints are bad too).

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:10
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

A way to check leg glue joints without removing the legs: Place a finger at the joint and shake the piano a bit. If you feel movement between the two sections, the glue joint has failed. I usually grip the joint between my thumb and any finger that reaches the span.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

------------------------------
Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
------------------------------

Jansen contacted me a said they can not make a truck for my customer's two-legged piano due to the size and angles involved at the ends of the arms.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 15:23
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Jansen indeed does make a cross-bar for the ends of the truck arms to support a double-legged piano. Hence the measurements they wanted as mentioned above. I'll send a photo of the truck installed.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 14:58
From: Peter Grey
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

I'm not trying to be disagreeable here but (though I do agree that a truck is the best way [though I've never seen a 6 legged truck])...

I think the owner needs to be authoritatively informed that (as has been alluded to) piano casters are NOT designed or intended for "moving" the piano (other than a few inches). And that what she wants to do is simply not realistically feasible (except with pros) and is otherwise downright dangerous .

That is my opinion and what I would tell a client asking me the same question.

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:17
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Taking a closer look at the casters, they appear to be the type of socket which is screwed in place. In which case you'll need to tip the piano. If you, or someone you know has a Moon Dog Grand Piano Tilter, you can simply tip the piano onto the bass bottom edge. This will give access to the treble and rear leg casters without the need to remove these legs or set the piano on its side (unless the glue joints are bad too).

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 12:10
From: Jon Page
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

A way to check leg glue joints without removing the legs: Place a finger at the joint and shake the piano a bit. If you feel movement between the two sections, the glue joint has failed. I usually grip the joint between my thumb and any finger that reaches the span.

------------------------------
Regards,

Jon Page

Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2018 10:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Andrea wrote:
"She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then."

I'm with Jon - the owner needs to have this piano on a real piano truck if moving it "now and then" is desired. Casters on piano legs are misleading - they make it look like one could just push the piano and have it roll around merrily. Not so. I've seen more than one piano leg collapsed and the related injuries of the owner on pianos that have been "pushed around" on their casters. Piano casters are NOT for moving the piano anywhere. I think the only reason they are on the bottom of most piano legs is so that the leg can equalize any torque that might otherwise be on the leg from setting the piano down in position or moving it "just that inch or two" to get it where you want it.

This piano appears to be a six-legger. I think what Jon described about the one he ordered from Jansen is one where the ends of the piano truck arms have an extra length of steel that will support both legs at the three points. I've never seen one like that. Please explain if I am incorrect with that thought Jon.

Jon wrote:
"To move a piano like this, you need a truck. I recently ordered one from Jansen. They want the make, length, width of each leg span and the distance between the centers on each leg. They construct arms to support the legs which attach to the ends of the truck arms. So instead of having a cup to support an individual leg, there is a length of steel mounted in its place to support the legs."

Jon also wrote:
"If they want to move it often, make certain the legs are secure themselves."

Good advice.

Jon further wrote:
"Get the help of someone with woodworking skills or at least someone with clamps to reglue the legs."

I would suggest: yes, if needed. Certainly some very old pianos have very secure and well-glued legs that are in no need of repair. However, a six-legger does indeed up the ante.

So that's it. If the owner wants to move it, either call a piano mover each time, or have six big guys to carry the piano to the next room, or install a piano truck specifically equipped/designed for a six-legger.

Grand piano casters are NOT meant to move the piano on! Please don't learn the hard way!!!  ;-)




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Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2018 20:37
From: Andrea Routley
Subject: Casters/dolly set-up recommendations?

Hi all,

A client of mine had a baby grand Max Adolf about 100 years old. She wants to replace the casters so that she can move it from one room to the next now and then. It will be moved over a hard floor. I've been looking up rubber casters, but the listings I've seen for casters also state that the piano should not be moved more than a few inches, and that moving it more than that will stress the legs, strip holes etc. I looked into the little 3-wheel dollies that fit on a standard grand leg, but then realized this baby grand isn't so standard -- it has two legs where there would normally be one. Anyway, I am a newbie and have never even built a birdhouse (dang that arts high school). Growing up, construction projects meant long, boring afternoons of holding things while my dad hammered something. So any advice or guidance on how best to problem-solve this is much appreciated!

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Andrea Routley
Roberts Creek BC
604-741-3390
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Original Message------

Jansen contacted me a said they can not make a truck for my customer's two-legged piano due to the size and angles involved at the ends of the arms.

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Regards,

Jon Page
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