Pianotech

  • 1.  Ford Connect as Business Vehicle -- shelving etc.

    Posted 08-11-2022 08:58
    Perhaps an odd question. Anyone use a Ford Connect as their business vehicle. If so, what type/maker of shelves etc. did you use? Looking for the best organization ideas. Thanks.

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    Johnny Matlock
    Hays KS
    (785) 625-8486
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  • 2.  RE: Ford Connect as Business Vehicle -- shelving etc.

    Member
    Posted 08-21-2022 08:17
    Check with Jim Geiger in Texas. I think he had a transit but probably have good ideas on how to equip the vehicle. Make sure you have a good anti-theft system and a way to track it should it go missing.

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    James Kelly
    Owner- Fur Elise Piano Service
    Pawleys Island SC
    (843) 325-4357
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Ford Connect as Business Vehicle -- shelving etc.

    Posted 08-21-2022 10:12
    Why do you feel you need to carry around every conceivable part? If something needs repairing or replacing, I schedule a return. I carry only four cases with tools/wire.
    A few action screws and larger screws for cheek blocks and key slips, some felts scraps and strips of suede for tightening loose screws.  I don't need to emulate a plumber or electrician.

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    Regards,

    Jon Page
    mailto:jonpage@comcast.net
    http://www.pianocapecod.com
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Ford Connect as Business Vehicle -- shelving etc.

    Posted 08-21-2022 11:56
    Jon, 

    I am out in NW Kansas where I go 2 hours from home and sometimes more, stay in hotel and tune for a couple of days at a time. I do not want to schedule a return trip for another year. LOL. Must finish the job with each visit. 

    Johnny

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    Johnny Matlock
    Hays KS
    (785) 625-8486
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    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Ford Connect as Business Vehicle -- shelving etc.

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 08-21-2022 13:30

    Johnny,

    I use a Ford Connect for my service vehicle. It's the perfect size for piano service. There's enough room for shelving and a grand action. The shelving I use is from Adrian Steel out of Michigan. The drawers are securable to prevent opening during travel. Incidentally, I talked to a Ford dealer recently who informed me there is a back order for those vehicles. My Ford connect cost me $23,000 about 3 years ago. I've had no problems with it.

    To Jon's comment – a few years ago I was called to service a piano that had been tuned previously by a technician who didn't have a basic part on hand to repair a disabled key. I carry (not every conceivable part) a wide range of parts, wire, and felt to address 90% of the issues I encounter. My customer appreciated not having to pay for a return trip for such a simple repair. I'm her preferred technician now.

    Another, item I carry is the Dampp Chaser -- heater and control unit only as we don't need the complete system here in Seattle. When needed I'm able to install it during a typical tuning appointment and instruct the customer to plug it in 2 weeks before the next tuning. This saves them a separate service call.

    When I'm approached to make repairs, major or minor, I always reverse my perspective to that of the customer. What is best for them given the knowledge of a piano technician?

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    Roger Gable RPT
    Gable Piano
    Everett WA
    (425) 252-5000
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    Original Message