Pianotech

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

Hi Dewald:
The shim method won't work if the block is split. It will open the crack even more. Water thin superglue works most of the time, and is the best option. Pin-tite only works if the block is still good basically, but not if it is split. Be sure to remove the action before using the superglue, and put some newspapers to catch any dripping. Use good ventilation too.
Good luck.
Paul McCloud
San Diego


Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

No to pin tite. Water thin CA glue only. It can be used on any piano, old, new, cheap, or expensive. The only other alternatives are to plug the pinblock  with pinblock material plugs, or replace the pinblock. If someone tells you that CA glue ruins the pinblock just tell them it already is.

------------------------------
Larry Messerly, RPT
Bringing Harmony to Homes
www.lacrossepianotuning.com
ljmesserly@gmail.com
928-899-7292
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 11:35
From: Paul McCloud
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Hi Dewald:
The shim method won't work if the block is split. It will open the crack even more. Water thin superglue works most of the time, and is the best option. Pin-tite only works if the block is still good basically, but not if it is split. Be sure to remove the action before using the superglue, and put some newspapers to catch any dripping. Use good ventilation too.
Good luck.
Paul McCloud
San Diego


Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

Dewald,
Cyanoacrylate glue, a.k.a. CA glue or Superglue is one of the most valuable recent additions to our tool kit.
It comes in water thin, thin, medium and thick viscosities.
It can be made to harden faster with "accelerators" or just moisture.
It can be softened with CA solvent.
It can glue your hand to a countertop, tool or piano in seconds, so always have solvent in arms reach when you use CA glue.
It takes some practice to learn how to use it in various applications, but is well worth the trouble.
Sources include fine woodworking supply stores, model plane and railroad suppliers, guitar repair suppliers and taxidermy suppliers.
It can have a short shelf life, so don't buy large supplies until you know your needs. It keeps longer in smaller, unopened containers. Once you open it, humidity in the air begins to thicken the glue.
Because of your visual impairments, you will need to be very, very careful, and develop special techniques for using CA glue, because one small drop in the wrong place can cause serious damage. You might want to call your former teachers at the Emil Fries School and get their advice and opinions. Almost all CA repairs except the tuning pin repair can be done with other glues; it just takes a little longer waiting for the glue to set.
Best regards,

------------------------------
Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com
(980) 254-7413
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 11:57
From: Larry Messerly
Subject: Loose tuning pins

No to pin tite. Water thin CA glue only. It can be used on any piano, old, new, cheap, or expensive. The only other alternatives are to plug the pinblock  with pinblock material plugs, or replace the pinblock. If someone tells you that CA glue ruins the pinblock just tell them it already is.

------------------------------
Larry Messerly, RPT
Bringing Harmony to Homes
www.lacrossepianotuning.com
ljmesserly@gmail.com
928-899-7292

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 11:35
From: Paul McCloud
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Hi Dewald:
The shim method won't work if the block is split. It will open the crack even more. Water thin superglue works most of the time, and is the best option. Pin-tite only works if the block is still good basically, but not if it is split. Be sure to remove the action before using the superglue, and put some newspapers to catch any dripping. Use good ventilation too.
Good luck.
Paul McCloud
San Diego


Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

If I remember correctly, didn't someone in a similar recent thread talk about removing the pin and swabbing the hole with 5-minute epoxy as a last resort?

I've only done the CA on one old piano so far. Two applications failed to work on several very loose pins. Make sure you have good ventilation--
I didn't. In spite of open windows and a small fan, I felt nauseated and a little dizzy the rest of the day.

------------------------------
Scott Cole
Talent OR
541-601-9033
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 12:28
From: Ed Sutton
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Dewald,
Cyanoacrylate glue, a.k.a. CA glue or Superglue is one of the most valuable recent additions to our tool kit.
It comes in water thin, thin, medium and thick viscosities.
It can be made to harden faster with "accelerators" or just moisture.
It can be softened with CA solvent.
It can glue your hand to a countertop, tool or piano in seconds, so always have solvent in arms reach when you use CA glue.
It takes some practice to learn how to use it in various applications, but is well worth the trouble.
Sources include fine woodworking supply stores, model plane and railroad suppliers, guitar repair suppliers and taxidermy suppliers.
It can have a short shelf life, so don't buy large supplies until you know your needs. It keeps longer in smaller, unopened containers. Once you open it, humidity in the air begins to thicken the glue.
Because of your visual impairments, you will need to be very, very careful, and develop special techniques for using CA glue, because one small drop in the wrong place can cause serious damage. You might want to call your former teachers at the Emil Fries School and get their advice and opinions. Almost all CA repairs except the tuning pin repair can be done with other glues; it just takes a little longer waiting for the glue to set.
Best regards,

------------------------------
Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com
(980) 254-7413

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 11:57
From: Larry Messerly
Subject: Loose tuning pins

No to pin tite. Water thin CA glue only. It can be used on any piano, old, new, cheap, or expensive. The only other alternatives are to plug the pinblock  with pinblock material plugs, or replace the pinblock. If someone tells you that CA glue ruins the pinblock just tell them it already is.

------------------------------
Larry Messerly, RPT
Bringing Harmony to Homes
www.lacrossepianotuning.com
ljmesserly@gmail.com
928-899-7292

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 11:35
From: Paul McCloud
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Hi Dewald:
The shim method won't work if the block is split. It will open the crack even more. Water thin superglue works most of the time, and is the best option. Pin-tite only works if the block is still good basically, but not if it is split. Be sure to remove the action before using the superglue, and put some newspapers to catch any dripping. Use good ventilation too.
Good luck.
Paul McCloud
San Diego


Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

And the epoxy does not always work, and it requires removing the coil and pin, with related problems in old pianos.
I have had success in building a small [emphasis small]...a small glue collar around the pin with medium viscosity CA glue. It will need touch up CA in future tunings. I.e. this is basically gluing the tuning pin in place. This small grand gets heavy use, and the tuning pin is holding.

------------------------------
Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com
(980) 254-7413
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 12:46
From: Scott Cole
Subject: Loose tuning pins

If I remember correctly, didn't someone in a similar recent thread talk about removing the pin and swabbing the hole with 5-minute epoxy as a last resort?

I've only done the CA on one old piano so far. Two applications failed to work on several very loose pins. Make sure you have good ventilation--
I didn't. In spite of open windows and a small fan, I felt nauseated and a little dizzy the rest of the day.

------------------------------
Scott Cole
Talent OR
541-601-9033

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 12:28
From: Ed Sutton
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Dewald,
Cyanoacrylate glue, a.k.a. CA glue or Superglue is one of the most valuable recent additions to our tool kit.
It comes in water thin, thin, medium and thick viscosities.
It can be made to harden faster with "accelerators" or just moisture.
It can be softened with CA solvent.
It can glue your hand to a countertop, tool or piano in seconds, so always have solvent in arms reach when you use CA glue.
It takes some practice to learn how to use it in various applications, but is well worth the trouble.
Sources include fine woodworking supply stores, model plane and railroad suppliers, guitar repair suppliers and taxidermy suppliers.
It can have a short shelf life, so don't buy large supplies until you know your needs. It keeps longer in smaller, unopened containers. Once you open it, humidity in the air begins to thicken the glue.
Because of your visual impairments, you will need to be very, very careful, and develop special techniques for using CA glue, because one small drop in the wrong place can cause serious damage. You might want to call your former teachers at the Emil Fries School and get their advice and opinions. Almost all CA repairs except the tuning pin repair can be done with other glues; it just takes a little longer waiting for the glue to set.
Best regards,

------------------------------
Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com
(980) 254-7413

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 11:57
From: Larry Messerly
Subject: Loose tuning pins

No to pin tite. Water thin CA glue only. It can be used on any piano, old, new, cheap, or expensive. The only other alternatives are to plug the pinblock  with pinblock material plugs, or replace the pinblock. If someone tells you that CA glue ruins the pinblock just tell them it already is.

------------------------------
Larry Messerly, RPT
Bringing Harmony to Homes
www.lacrossepianotuning.com
ljmesserly@gmail.com
928-899-7292

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 11:35
From: Paul McCloud
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Hi Dewald:
The shim method won't work if the block is split. It will open the crack even more. Water thin superglue works most of the time, and is the best option. Pin-tite only works if the block is still good basically, but not if it is split. Be sure to remove the action before using the superglue, and put some newspapers to catch any dripping. Use good ventilation too.
Good luck.
Paul McCloud
San Diego


Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

Dewald

CA or "super glue", is the way to go, as every one has been telling you. For pin blocks use the thin. 

But you're probably wonder where to get it. You can order it on-line but the shipping cost will kill you. I get my CA glue at a hobby shop. The store that sells model airplanes, cars, etc..

Be sure to get the "kicker", or accelerator. You won't need it for the pin block, but when you use it to glue broken action parts together, the kicker will make it set almost instantly. You will need to experiment with what will work, and how to use it. 

Good luck. 


------------------------------
Willem "Wim" Blees, RPT
Mililani, HI 96789
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 11:00
From: Dewald Van Deventer
Subject: Loose tuning pins

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

On the subject of CA glue, don't forget Coleman's CA glue. It's much stronger than regular. Not as brittle. They have thin, but not water-thin. Available at Colemantools.com. Works great for regluing ivories. Will adhere anything to anything, including nylon and other plastics, with a special prep liquid.
Keep it "cool". Left in a hot car, it will thicken. DAMHIK.
I've not tried it on loose pins that were removed, ie. swabbing the hole with it. Might even be too tight after using it.
Paul McCloud




Willem Blees
Dewald

CA or "super glue", is the way to go, as every one has been telling you. For pin blocks use the thin.

But you're probably wonder where to get it. You can order it on-line but the shipping cost will kill you. I get my CA glue at a hobby shop. The store that sells model airplanes, cars, etc..

Be sure to get the "kicker", or accelerator. You won't need it for the pin block, but when you use it to glue broken action parts together, the kicker will make it set almost instantly. You will need to experiment with what will work, and how to use it.

Good luck.


------------------------------
Willem "Wim" Blees, RPT
Mililani, HI 96789



Original Message------

Dewald

CA or "super glue", is the way to go, as every one has been telling you. For pin blocks use the thin. 

But you're probably wonder where to get it. You can order it on-line but the shipping cost will kill you. I get my CA glue at a hobby shop. The store that sells model airplanes, cars, etc..

Be sure to get the "kicker", or accelerator. You won't need it for the pin block, but when you use it to glue broken action parts together, the kicker will make it set almost instantly. You will need to experiment with what will work, and how to use it. 

Good luck. 


------------------------------
Willem "Wim" Blees, RPT
Mililani, HI 96789
------------------------------

Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

Nancy, I believe this is a vertical piano as he mentioned lying it down.

------------------------------
Larry Messerly, RPT
Bringing Harmony to Homes
www.lacrossepianotuning.com
ljmesserly@gmail.com
928-899-7292
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 14:53
From: Nancy Salmon
Subject: Loose tuning pins

I would also opt for the Cyano-acrylate glue and have had good success with it.

But I'm curious that no one has mentioned installing oversized pins, supporting the underside of the block and reaming the hole to clean and size for a larger tuning pin?

Is this no longer done?

Nancy Salmon

LaVale, MD

Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

Dear Colleagues,
Dewald is profoundly visually impaired.
He says so on his web site.
He studied at the Emil Fries School, and is an RPT.
But he's not familiar with CA glue, and I am asking us to consider if it is safe to work with CA glue if you cannot see.
You can't safely control or monitor CA flow by touch, and one random drop or dribble can cause damage or even danger.
This is why I suggested he contact his teachers.
Or perhaps he may have a sighted assistant apply the CA glue.
On pianos with the open pinblock, pins sometimes wallow their way out of the block. 
His "German" piano may be that sort of piano, Older Boesendorfers can have this problem, for example.
I don't know the right repair for this.

------------------------------
Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com
(980) 254-7413
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 16:27
From: Larry Messerly
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Nancy, I believe this is a vertical piano as he mentioned lying it down.

------------------------------
Larry Messerly, RPT
Bringing Harmony to Homes
www.lacrossepianotuning.com
ljmesserly@gmail.com
928-899-7292

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 14:53
From: Nancy Salmon
Subject: Loose tuning pins

I would also opt for the Cyano-acrylate glue and have had good success with it.

But I'm curious that no one has mentioned installing oversized pins, supporting the underside of the block and reaming the hole to clean and size for a larger tuning pin?

Is this no longer done?

Nancy Salmon

LaVale, MD

Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

Hi all.
Thank you so much for all your helpful replies.
You don't have to worry ... I have heard what CA glue can do.
But I will get the solvant too, for in-case.
I have a full-time driver/assistant helping me here and there.
The technician that will bring me some CA glue will treat my piano himself, and, in the process, show my assistant how to use it.
I'll just have to find a way to get rid of the fumes.

Next question:
How much would you charge for a job like this, to treat the whole piano,
and how long after the application would I have to wait to tune the piano?
Or can I do it immediately?

I am just so releaved, because I am struggling with my own piano, and the beckets are breaking when taking the coils off, etc.
And my customers are sad that their pianos can't be tuned.

Ed, I am sorry to inform you that the Emil Fries school, "The School of Piano Technology for the Blind" in Vancouver Wa, has recently closed due to a lack of students and funds.
I am very very saddened by the whole afair, but, luckily I can still ocasionally call my instructor.

Hopefully I could start my own school over here in South Africa.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT"
Happy Pianos - Piano tuning and Service
Bloemfontein South Africa
Phone:
+27824614865
Email:
dewaldpianotuner@gmail.com
Visit my website:
http://www.Happy-Pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/HappyPianos/

------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 19:40
From: Ed Sutton
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Dear Colleagues,
Dewald is profoundly visually impaired.
He says so on his web site.
He studied at the Emil Fries School, and is an RPT.
But he's not familiar with CA glue, and I am asking us to consider if it is safe to work with CA glue if you cannot see.
You can't safely control or monitor CA flow by touch, and one random drop or dribble can cause damage or even danger.
This is why I suggested he contact his teachers.
Or perhaps he may have a sighted assistant apply the CA glue.
On pianos with the open pinblock, pins sometimes wallow their way out of the block.
His "German" piano may be that sort of piano, Older Boesendorfers can have this problem, for example.
I don't know the right repair for this.

------------------------------
Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com
(980) 254-7413

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 16:27
From: Larry Messerly
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Nancy, I believe this is a vertical piano as he mentioned lying it down.

------------------------------
Larry Messerly, RPT
Bringing Harmony to Homes
www.lacrossepianotuning.com
ljmesserly@gmail.com
928-899-7292

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 14:53
From: Nancy Salmon
Subject: Loose tuning pins

I would also opt for the Cyano-acrylate glue and have had good success with it.

But I'm curious that no one has mentioned installing oversized pins, supporting the underside of the block and reaming the hole to clean and size for a larger tuning pin?

Is this no longer done?

Nancy Salmon

LaVale, MD

Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------

Hi, Dewald.

The advice I'd give you about using CA glue on loose tuning pins is to evaluate very carefully how many are loose and where they are. Unless the whole instrument has loose tuning pins everywhere, I'd advise using the CA only on the affected tuning pins, and using as small an amount on each pin as possible. If you treat a tuning pin, and come back five minutes later, and it is still too loose, you can treat it again. On the other hand, if you use a lot of CA on the whole piano, the fumes are very toxic, the CA is likely to end up where you don't want it to be, and most of the effort is wasted.

Many times I've found that an upright has only five or ten strings which can't be tuned. If you put a few drops of CA glue on top of the tuning pin where it meets the pinblock, it will seep in and usually you can then tune the note. I hold a shop towel just under the tuning pin, to catch any extra CA glue which might drip down. I think that with caution after a little practice with the help of someone sighted while learning that a blind piano technician could do this unaided. Just use very little. Even a small amount of CA can be amazingly effective.

You don't need to tilt an upright to treat the loose pins. Just aim the pointed glue bottle or applicator tube at the seam between the tuning pin and the pinblock or plate bushing, use very little, and the glue will seep in.

If you treat only the tuning pins which really need it, it usually takes very little time. A small bottle of CA can stay in your kit so it is there when you need it. I'd advise keeping it in a ziploc bag in case the lid comes loose. If you always have the CA with you, you won't feel worried about not treating the whole piano. If another few pins get too loose later, it is a very easy matter to give them a few drops each later on. It takes minutes, and uses so little glue that you can save a piano with very little expense.

Hope this helps ...

------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-07-2017 09:43
From: Dewald Van Deventer
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Hi all.
Thank you so much for all your helpful replies.
You don't have to worry ... I have heard what CA glue can do.
But I will get the solvant too, for in-case.
I have a full-time driver/assistant helping me here and there.
The technician that will bring me some CA glue will treat my piano himself, and, in the process, show my assistant how to use it.
I'll just have to find a way to get rid of the fumes.

Next question:
How much would you charge for a job like this, to treat the whole piano,
and how long after the application would I have to wait to tune the piano?
Or can I do it immediately?

I am just so releaved, because I am struggling with my own piano, and the beckets are breaking when taking the coils off, etc.
And my customers are sad that their pianos can't be tuned.

Ed, I am sorry to inform you that the Emil Fries school, "The School of Piano Technology for the Blind" in Vancouver Wa, has recently closed due to a lack of students and funds.
I am very very saddened by the whole afair, but, luckily I can still ocasionally call my instructor.

Hopefully I could start my own school over here in South Africa.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT"
Happy Pianos - Piano tuning and Service
Bloemfontein South Africa
Phone:
+27824614865
Email:
dewaldpianotuner@gmail.com
Visit my website:
http://www.Happy-Pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/HappyPianos/


Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 19:40
From: Ed Sutton
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Dear Colleagues,
Dewald is profoundly visually impaired.
He says so on his web site.
He studied at the Emil Fries School, and is an RPT.
But he's not familiar with CA glue, and I am asking us to consider if it is safe to work with CA glue if you cannot see.
You can't safely control or monitor CA flow by touch, and one random drop or dribble can cause damage or even danger.
This is why I suggested he contact his teachers.
Or perhaps he may have a sighted assistant apply the CA glue.
On pianos with the open pinblock, pins sometimes wallow their way out of the block.
His "German" piano may be that sort of piano, Older Boesendorfers can have this problem, for example.
I don't know the right repair for this.

------------------------------
Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com
(980) 254-7413

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 16:27
From: Larry Messerly
Subject: Loose tuning pins

Nancy, I believe this is a vertical piano as he mentioned lying it down.

------------------------------
Larry Messerly, RPT
Bringing Harmony to Homes
www.lacrossepianotuning.com
ljmesserly@gmail.com
928-899-7292

Original Message:
Sent: 10-06-2017 14:53
From: Nancy Salmon
Subject: Loose tuning pins

I would also opt for the Cyano-acrylate glue and have had good success with it.

But I'm curious that no one has mentioned installing oversized pins, supporting the underside of the block and reaming the hole to clean and size for a larger tuning pin?

Is this no longer done?

Nancy Salmon

LaVale, MD

Original Message------

I know this is probably a well-discussed topic on this forum.
But ... tuning my own piano at home, I discovered some loose tuning pins in the base section.
It's a German-made piano, quite well-known here in South Africa.
So, I did what my instructor told me.
Take out the pin, and put in a sandpaper bushing.
The other day, another tech told me to try a thin strip of vineer.
So ... I tried that.
Neither really worked.
I am desperate, because we get quite a few pianos over here which have more than five loose tuning pins.
And sometimes the bushings work ... other times not.

Other technicians here have told me that they use a type of glue which they incert in the holes, while the piano is lying on its back,
drink a cup of coffee with the customer;
And when they're done, lift the piano up again, and it's ready to tune.

My instructor told me that this method can be used on old inexpensive pianos, if they are not worth restringing.
I have only restrung one piano in my life, at school, and not sure if I will ever get the chance to do it again.
But, I want to know from the guys here, if that glue, or Tuning Pin Tightner, "or whatever you want to call it", will help over a long time, and if it won't damage the pin block.
Then, if it's ok, what type of glue to use.
I've heard of Water-thin Superglue.
I don't think you get something like that over here, so will probably need to import it.
Thank you for your patience.

God bless,
Dewald.

------------------------------
Dewald van Deventer "RPT" Happy Pianos
http://www.happy-pianos.com/
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/
------------------------------