Pianotech

  • 1.  Plastic dowel capstans plus

    Posted 07-16-2021 19:09
    I had a Young Chang upright yesterday that needed regulating. The plastic dowel capstans did not want to turn—instead they broke. They acted much like pianos from WWII that used plastic parts. Does anyone know if the wood dowel capstans from Schaff would work as replacements? The old ones will crush easily with pliers, but is mounting the new ones finger work? Is there a tool that helps?

    I’m trying to contact both Young Chang and Schaff, and so far I have no responses.

    Also, the plastic turn buckle body that adjusts the practice rail is broken. Any sources for that? The ones at the local hardware stores are metal and too big.

    Arlie Rauch
    Sierra Vista, AZ


  • 2.  RE: Plastic dowel capstans plus

    Posted 07-16-2021 20:44
    hello Arlie,
    i have replaced those plastic capstans with wooden ones in the past and had no problem.  i think that once i had to cut the dowels a little shorter.
    An easy way to screw on the new capstans, is to take the key out start by hand and then insert the regular capstan regulator.

    as for the turn buckles:  i bought 2 of each size from Yamaha (probably 10 or so years ago), their numbers T0806101 and T0806102.

    Peter
    Janssen Piano Services

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    Petrus Janssen
    Peachtree City GA
    678-416-8055
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  • 3.  RE: Plastic dowel capstans plus

    Posted 07-16-2021 23:42
    Thanks much for your response.  It will be very helpful!

    Arlie

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    Arlie Rauch
    Piano Technician
    Sierra Vista AZ
    520-378-7062
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