Pianotech

I need to replace the knuckles on a Samick Grand because they are out of round and the covering is shredded. I am looking for a method that will get the knuckles off cleanly without breaking the shanks yet not take hours. I found several approaches from using a bandsaw. using end cutting pliers and a scraper backing plate for leverage , center pin cutters, heat. I am wondering if someone has discovered a better method perhaps using a jig dremel tool with router bit etc. I have looked at some fret saws used by luthiers to make fine cuts for guitars which might be a slow approach and too inaccurate 

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James Kelly
Owner- Fur Elise Piano Service
Pawleys Island SC
(843) 325-4357
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I once saw it done by drilling a hole slightly larger than the knuckle right near the end of the wood so one side is open about the same amount as the width of the knuckle "tang", then putting that in the vice and tapping the knuckle out with a small metal bar slightly narrower than the tang.

Alternately, what about applying a vinegar solution or wallpaper remover and easing it out with pliers? 

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Steven Rosenthal RPT
Honolulu HI
(808) 521-7129
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I've changed a lot of sets using the knuckle removing pliers KPL-6 from Pianotek Supply.  I sometimes will need to  clean out the slot a bit after the knuckle is out.  A wood chisel and a hacksaw blade are useful to have on hand.  I have had some shank sets that are problematic, where some of the wood on the ower surface of the shank lifted and had to be reglued, but that is unusual.  There might be some benefit in pre-heating the joint with a hair straightening iron.  I've not used mine in this application, but have found it useful for weakening glue in other places in the piano action.  Heating the joint will make the job take longer, so you'll have to weigh the cost and benefit.

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Floyd Gadd RPT
Regina SK
(306) 502-9103
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-19-2023 17:44
From: Steven Rosenthal
Subject: Removing & Replacing Grand Knuckles

I once saw it done by drilling a hole slightly larger than the knuckle right near the end of the wood so one side is open about the same amount as the width of the knuckle "tang", then putting that in the vice and tapping the knuckle out with a small metal bar slightly narrower than the tang.

Alternately, what about applying a vinegar solution or wallpaper remover and easing it out with pliers? 

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Steven Rosenthal RPT
Honolulu HI
(808) 521-7129
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I have a large set of end-nippers, often used for pulling out nails, that easily and safely extracts knuckles.

You might have to grind the face to flush to get a better extraction.

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Blaine Hebert RPT
Duarte CA
(626) 795-5170
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