Rex-
This sounds like a good use of an old Zuckerbox,
What I have done in this situation with both Zuckermann and Sperrhake instruments is
1) Carefully remove the old leather plectrum
2) Cut a little plug of balsa wood from a stick a little larger than the mortise
3) Compress the balsa wood plug, press it in the mortise and slide a delrin plectrum in place.
4) Holding the tongue away from the jack and pointing down from the axle, put a drop of thin CA glue on the balsa wood plug. Not too much, and be careful it doesn't run into the axle.
This basically converts the balsa into a little plexiglas plug and converts the mortise into a slot for delrin or celcon.
The glue does not adhere to the delrin, so it can be pushed in or out.
In my experience this is a permanent fix, it doesn't come loose.
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Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com(980) 254-7413
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Original Message:
Sent: 01-04-2019 12:35
From: Rex Roseman
Subject: Zuckermann Jacks
Thanks for the responces. I checked the Zuckermann site and I believe that the cost of the replacement kit (+labor) is more then they should invest in this instrument with it's structural problems. I have sent them a quote, but am going to first see if the plectrum can be replaced with the spacer intact as Ed suggested.
If this were my instrument, I would definitely tear it down, rebuild it and use the replacement kit. This instrument is to see if their son is going to stay interested enough to upgrade to a better instrument. Because he likes to tinker with it and because harpsichordists, unlike pianists, have to be able to maintain their instruments, I think this will work out. Sort of the opposite philosophy of pianos were a poor piano will discourage a starter, a harpsichord that needs TLC may just encourage him to keep at it. Sweat equity can be a great motivator.
Rex
Original Message------
It sounds like you have the old, large original Zuckermann clickity-clack jacks with a a small lead weight. I believe this plastic is beginning to degrade on some instruments.
If you support the tongue and wood plug, you may be able to slide out the delrin plectrum and slide in a replacement.
But if the customers will pay for it, the upgrade is worth it.
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Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com
(980) 254-7413
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