No lightning from here, Jim. And, I think your response might legitimately fall under the third sub-question about what am I missing.
I appreciate the insight and the reminder that mechanically, the sticker system is quite efficient (for playing if not for servicing).
Beyond the technical issues narrowly considered, though, I'm also thinking about some of the "meta" issues -- like, "who's going to service the thing after I retire?"
I know of some highly competent technicians -- never mind those with limited technical vision-- who simply won't be bothered with service hassles such as having to remove 10 screws PLUS pop 88 stickers rather than just remove 10 screws to split the stack from the keyframe. (And, of course as you mentioned, setting hammer line is a pain which many technicians might not even be familiar how to adjust the rockers.)
The flip side of that coin is the expense for the customer to retain the existing setup. Even though I'm willing to work on it, I'm still going to have to charge the customer more just to lube keypins or whatever else is done with the action stack split off the keyframe.
Also, the piano sits about 50' from one of the Great Lakes, here in the Upper Midwest, so humidity is a factor that I had hoped to reduce as an action-related issue by using the WN&G components (all I use anymore). As an indicator of the situation that is likely to be the case for all action centers, performing the hammer shank "swing test" got about .35 of a swing. I don't understand why the action even worked, to tell the truth.
Again, thanks for your response and I invite others to contribute.
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Keith Akins
Akins Pianocraft
Menominee MI
715-775-0022
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-11-2021 15:14
From: Jim Ialeggio
Subject: Bechstein model B (~6'6") mfg 1923 w/stickers and rockers instead of capstans and wippen heels
I redesign actions with WNG parts all the time. I did a similar Bechstein B a couple of years ago, and elected to leave the action alone, and I'm very glad I did. It turns out, that well regulated this is amazing action to play. The owner calls it "Organic". Without the slop built into the heel/capstan interface, it is a very tight action and the repetition is really excellent. It is a pain in the ass to adjust the hammer line, no doubt, but it is also quite stable.
So, though I hate when folks don't answer the question, as I am doing here, I just wanted to encourage you to look at what this action has to offer rather than the negative aspect that usually is advertised.
I did not analyze the action from a redesign perspective, so I can't help there...I hope lightning doesn't strike me for not answering your question...
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Jim Ialeggio
grandpianosolutions.com
Shirley, MA
978 425-9026
Original Message:
Sent: 09-11-2021 13:55
From: Keith Akins
Subject: Bechstein model B (~6'6") mfg 1923 w/stickers and rockers instead of capstans and wippen heels
I don't find regulating these actions too daunting, but we are looking at parts replacement here on this piano that is in it's 99th year.
I'd like to replace with WN&G wippens, so there is a lot of variety for wippen heels. Of course, I'll have to build up the end of the key for correct capstan height.
So, this is a preliminary question -- I have yet to take measurements for "magic line" and other geometry parameters:
Is there anyone out there who has modernized this action to use conventional wippens? What wisdom can you offer here re:
--possible key/keyframe modifications (no gliders under balance rail) -- better to get new keys and action stack?
--possible changes in touch resistance/effort?
--what am I looking at that I'm not seeing?
Thanks!
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Keith Akins
Akins Pianocraft
Menominee MI
715-775-0022
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