Pianotech

  • 1.  Jaras Difference

    Posted 05-15-2020 19:11
      |   view attached
    So, I have both Jaras key dip tools (No. 40 and 42). The instruction sheets for both have paragraphs where the words are cut-off on the edges.

    Does anyone have full instructions (with no words cut-off)? And/or does anyone have their own methods of using either or both of these tools that have written instructions? I get the main idea but I don't see what the difference is between either tool...I owned No.42 1st and No. 40 was recommended for me since No. 42 doesn't have a locking nut to keep the rod from inadvertently twisting while measuring dip.

    Thanks.

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    Cobrun Sells
    cobrun94@yahoo.com
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  • 2.  RE: Jaras Difference

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 05-15-2020 20:25
    Mr. Sells,
    I don't have the instructions but I have used the number 40 for years to set touch on sharps as well as naturals. The key (see what I did there?) for me is to use a 100 gram or there abouts weight on the key so as to get the same pressure each time. If I'm near the shop tomorrow I'll weigh the actual hunk of metal I use that I got at a steel shop in Oneonta NY back in '93 just before Dallas ruined Buffalo's season in Super Bowl XXVII. I set the tool on a flat surface and use a caliper to measure the height I want on the bobbin before I start. Thanks for making me remember that trip to SUNY Oneonta.

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    Karl Roeder
    Pompano Beach FL
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  • 3.  RE: Jaras Difference

    Posted 05-15-2020 20:56
    Also,

    How much weight should be placed on key for consistent key dip?

    I see WNG has 400gram key dip block. Is 400grams pretty consistent with how much our fingers are actually weighing down on keys when played/held depressed?

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    Cobrun Sells
    cobrun94@yahoo.com
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  • 4.  RE: Jaras Difference

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 05-16-2020 14:50
    So here are some pictures showing how I use the Jaras tool for touch depth.First off I was wrong about the weight of my hunk of steel. It is a svelte 162 grams. It used to weigh a bit over 200 grams but I found that to be too heavy. The piece is about 2 inches long 1 and 5/16 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. After I measure the height of the bobbin above the top of the cylinder I tighten the locking ring. At the piano I place the weight on the key and then manually cycle the action through escapement. I then add or remove punchings until the top of the bobbin and the top of the cylinder are flush. It's important to put the weight in the same place relative to the front of the key each time to get a consistent result. Since I set the sharp's depth by aftertouch I set the bobbin flush to the cylinder at the bottom of the keystroke on a note I've already set. Even after I've done all the sharps with the tool I have to go through and set them by feel. Hope this helps. Stay healthy.

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    Karl Roeder
    Pompano Beach FL
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  • 5.  RE: Jaras Difference

    Posted 05-17-2020 13:31
    My understanding is that the first one had a flaw in that the threading didn't coincide with the revolution markings of depthness. So the markings are off. So they made the second one to correct the problem but it still doesn't coincide. Todd Scott would be the one to ask as this is a pet peeve of his.
    -chris

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    Chernobieff Piano Restorations
    "Where Tone is Key"
    chernobieffpiano.com
    grandpianoman@protonmail.com
    Lenoir City, TN
    865-986-7720
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  • 6.  RE: Jaras Difference

    Posted 05-17-2020 16:03
    Chris, I believe you are referring to the No. 42 option. I was wondering what the difference was between No.40 and No.42 as seen pictured in my original post. No.40 does NOT have the dial on top where as No.42 does.

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    Cobrun Sells
    cobrun94@yahoo.com
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