Pianotech

  • 1.  Loosening Whippen Flange Screws

    Member
    Posted 11-17-2018 18:19
    What is the best way to loosen the whippen flange screws on a Steinway L that has brass rails ? I removed two whippens and had to exert lots of effort to remove the screw. I used two different size screwdrivers but the screws where so tight it was like trying to change a flat tire which had been overtight from an air gun. I recall something about using heat to heAt the screwdriver but how about a hairdryer. Maybe using the hot tip from a soldierng iron ???




    ------------------------------
    James Kelly
    Pawleys Island SC
    843-325-4357
    ------------------------------


  • 2.  RE: Loosening Whippen Flange Screws

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 11-18-2018 11:05
    I've had success using a soldering iron to loosen recalcitrant screws in wood: case parts, and old glide bolts. Maybe someone else can speak to whether this is a good idea for screws in a brass rail?

    ------------------------------
    Scott Cole, RPT
    rvpianotuner.com
    Talent, OR
    (541-601-9033
    ------------------------------