Pianotech

  • 1.  Muffler felt replacement

    Posted 02-09-2017 14:40
    A new client needs his muffler rail felt replaced. I've never actually done this repair. Is contact cement a good choice? This is a Bechstein Concert 8, so want to be sure it's right. Plan to use Pianotek #FMF-1: "High quality, soft white felt. Set of 3 pieces (enough for one piano). Each piece measures 3-1/8" wide x 19-1/2" long. You will receive one each of these thicknesses: .037", .055", and .075""

    Also, anything in particular about tuning this piano that might be good to know?

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    Ruben Jackson
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  • 2.  RE: Muffler felt replacement

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 02-09-2017 16:48
    Ruben

    I don't know how much Pianotek wants for their felt, but why don't you go to your neighborhood fabric store and buy 1/3 yard felt they've got in stock that matches the felt on the rail. Cut it to whatever length and width you need.  It doesn't even have to be the same color.  And, yes, contact cement will work. 

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    Willem "Wim" Blees, RPT
    Mililani, HI 96789
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Muffler felt replacement

    Posted 02-09-2017 21:46
    Thanks, Wim.

    I thought about that but when I saw the Pianotek stuff that came in varying thicknesses for the different sections, I thought I'd give it a shot. Also thanks for the affirmative on the contact cement.

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    Ruben Jackson
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Muffler felt replacement

    Posted 02-10-2017 01:42
    Known in UK as 'Celeste Felt'. It is sold by my supplier, Fletcher & Newman, and is of graduating thickness (in the same way hammer felts are of graduating thickness) and in different widths. I usually use 'Copydex' which is a wonderful rubber-based, white, fabric glue - as used in drape pelmets for attaching silk cording &c. Secret with this stuff is to use a hammer to pound it together so the glue gets right in the two materials. But hammers aren't required for fixing a Celeste felt to its 'bar'. Good luck. Never hears of a Bechstein Concert 8 - it has to be an upright (Vertical) to use a Celeste felt.     Michael    UK



    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Muffler felt replacement

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 02-10-2017 09:41
    I have used the felt from pianotech and it is very good material. I would suggest ordering two sets of the felt, that way you're sure to have the exact right thickness to match what you are replacing. . It's also good to use PVCE glue. It is designed for dissimilar materials and it is non toxic.  I avoid using contact cement for anything whenever possible. 
    David Weiss

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    David Weiss
    Charlottesville VA
    434-823-9733
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    Original Message


  • 6.  RE: Muffler felt replacement

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 02-10-2017 11:41
    "Fabri-tac" or some such named actone-based adhesive available at fabric and craft stores is also very quick and very strong. I too would stay away from contact cement.

    Pwg

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    Peter Grey
    Stratham NH
    603-686-2395
    pianodoctor57@gmail.com
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    Original Message


  • 7.  RE: Muffler felt replacement

    Posted 02-15-2017 20:35
    Thank you everyone.

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    Ruben Jackson
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    Original Message