This system looks like a real kluge to me even if it does work. I have used small wedges between the fall board side and rim in situations like this and it keeps the fall board from closing and slamming down. I have seen some rather elaborate slow close hardware installed inside the action cavity that uses a small hydraulic piston to slowly close the fall board over the keys. One system was on a Baldwin Artist Grand and another on a Suzuki upright. A google search may show other after market devices . I am not sure I would install any of these but I would advise using wedges to hold the fall board open most of the time. At some point kids can be shown how to open and close it safely.
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James Kelly
Owner- Fur Elise Piano Service
Pawleys Island SC
843-325-4357
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-18-2020 22:49
From: Paul McCloud
Subject: Pneumatic Fallboard Closer System
Hi Dennis:
I've installed several of these. It's not that complicated. There is a wire/cord that attaches to the fallboard, then holes are drilled in the keyframe and the keybed for the wire to pass through to the bottom of the keybed. A bellows is attached underneath so that the wire can connect to it. A few small adjustments, adding a strain relief to the bottom of the hole, and you're done. It does work. I had some problems with the attachment to the fallboard, which is basically a screw-eye. I've had them pull out of their mounting hole, and sometimes there isn't much for the screw to embed itself into. If you thought this was complicated, there's another version that mounts on the inside of the action cavity.
Good luck.
Paul McCloud
Original Message------
Hi All-I have been asked to install a Pneumatic Fallboard soft closer system on a Steinway L. This is not a regular customer and was referred to me from across the country. This product is new to me and I'm inclined to decline, but wanted to ask if anyone here can speak in favor of them or if you have had any relevant experiences. I attached the product description and installation instructions below. The owner is concerned his kids may slam the fallboard down accidentally and hurt themselves. I think it's a significant modification I'm not that comfortable with.
thank you!
Dennis Johnson
St. Olaf College, Music.
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Dennis Johnson, R.P.T.
St. Olaf College
Music Dept.
Northfield, MN 55337
sta2ned@stolaf.edu
(507) 786-3587
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